Remembering Dr. Edward Sommers
Dr. Edward Sommers, part-time faculty at Eastman Institute for Oral Health for 44 years, has passed away.
Three years after he graduated from EIOH’s Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics residency program in 1978, he began teaching at Eastman one day a week.
“He was always present come rain or sunshine; only severe illness prevented him from being in his favorite orthodontic place,” said Dr. Emile Rossouw, chair, EIOH Orthodontics. “Dr. Sommers practiced and taught orthodontics right to the end. A phenomenal individual with commitment and passion for orthodontics second to none.”
“Dr. Sommers was the faculty that every resident would seek to try complex and innovative techniques or to find solutions to challenging clinical problems and scenarios,” recalled Dr. Dimitrios Michelogiannakis, former resident and now program director. “I had the privilege to learn from his deep orthodontic mastery and passion for education.”
Despite the many changes over the years, Dr. Sommers has always been a constant and a cornerstone of the orthodontics program.
“Dr. Sommer’s kindness, knowledge and support of our residents, faculty and the Institute were truly exceptional,” said Dr. Eli Eliav, EIOH director. “He made an immeasurable impact that will be remembered for years to come.”
“I will always remember him for his passion for teaching residents, care for his patients and for our profession in general, and for his unwavering commitment which led him to keep teaching throughout his life,” Dr. Michelogiannakis added.
“His patient care was of the highest standards, a role model for students and orthodontists alike,” said Dr. Rossouw. “He loved Eastman Orthodontics and throughout his career mentored numerous residents to become excellent orthodontists. He will be missed.”
After earning his DMD from the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Edward Sommers completed a tour of duty in the U.S. Air Force Dental Corp. A member of the International College of Dentistry, Dr. Sommers lectured around the world. He earned the EIOH Excellence in Teaching Award, and a Continuing Dental Education Achievement Award from the New York State Dental Association.
“We lost one of our Eastman legends, a humble, fun and caring individual, but I am sure Dr. Sommer’s legacy will live on by his family and friends, and by all the students, patients, and colleagues he touched upon and deeply inspired,” said Dr. Michelogiannakis.
Visitation will be held Thursday, May 15th from 4 pm to 7 pm at Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home, 7501 Pittsford-Palmyra Road Fairport, NY 14450. Services will be held Friday, May 16th, at 10 a.m. at the All Seasons Chapel at White Haven Memorial Park, 210 Marsh Road, Pittsford, NY 14450.
Dr. Sommers’ Obituary can be read here.
Dr. Sommers’ Faculty Feature can be read here.
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