Announcing the interim dean for the School of Dentistry

Dear colleagues, 

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Kristin Bruk Artinger as interim dean of the School of Dentistry beginning July 1, 2026, following the retirement of Dean Keith Mays.

Dr. Artinger is an accomplished scientist, educator and academic leader who currently serves as professor in the Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences and associate dean of research and discovery. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to academic excellence, collaboration, and innovation across education and discovery. 

Her thoughtful leadership, broad institutional perspective and dedication to supporting faculty, staff and students make her exceptionally well prepared to guide the School during this transition.

Before joining the University of Minnesota, Dr. Artinger held several leadership roles at the University of Colorado, including graduate program director, vice chair of the craniofacial biology department and chair of the dean's executive committee. An internationally recognized developmental biologist, her research has advanced understanding of the molecular and genetic mechanisms that shape craniofacial development and birth defects. She has also built a reputation as an outstanding mentor, creating opportunities that prepare graduate students and early-career researchers to succeed while fostering a culture of respect and shared purpose.
The School of Dentistry enters this transition from a position of strength. Its exceptional faculty, staff and students continue to advance excellence in education, research, clinical care and community engagement while preparing the majority of Minnesota's future dentists and expanding access to oral healthcare across the state. Under Dr. Artinger's interim leadership, the School will continue advancing these priorities and maintaining the momentum established through its strategic vision.

The search for the School's next dean will begin later this summer, and I will share updates as that process moves forward. In the meantime, I am confident the School will continue to thrive under Dr. Artinger's leadership and with the dedication of its faculty, staff, students, alumni and partners.

Please join me in welcoming Dr. Artinger to this interim leadership role and in once again thanking Dean Keith Mays for his outstanding service and lasting contributions to the School of Dentistry and the University.

Sincerely, 

Gretchen Ritter
Executive Vice President and Provost