After nearly four decades practicing orthodontics, Richard Black, D.D.S., M.S., was ready for a new challenge. In May 2018, he was appointed the inaugural dean of the Hunt School of Dental Medicine, the first dental school in Texas in 50 years.

“I grew up in El Paso, left for about 11 years, and came back to take care of my community,” Dr. Black said. “I really thought orthodontics was the greatest job in the world. But I feel like this job is even better because now I’m shaping lives and careers.”

This work is made possible through the generous support of donors and community partners. Under Dr. Black’s pioneering leadership, the school is recognized nationally for its innovative approach to dental education. Students begin caring for patients in their first semester, learn medical Spanish and participate in community service throughout their training.

They also earn a Community Health Certificate, the only fully integrated program of its kind at a U.S. dental school, with 15 credits that apply toward a Master of Public Health degree.

“We had a blank piece of paper to start with,” Dr. Black said. “I had to surround myself with really smart people who are experts in academic dentistry.”

One of the school’s most visible impacts is the Texas Tech Dental Oral Health Clinic. Since opening in 2021, the clinic has provided affordable dental care to over 49,000 patients, while providing students with hands-on training under faculty supervision.

Now Dr. Black is taking more steps toward a comprehensive dental school. Last year, the school launched an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency program and began developing additional specialties including orthodontics.

His efforts to expand dental healthcare access and educate future providers earned him an induction into the 2025 Junior Achievement El Paso Business Hall of Fame.

The award celebrates a remarkable career, but more importantly, it recognizes Dr. Black’s trailblazing vision that extends far beyond one person and impacts generations.