Patrick Lloyd will serve as the new dean of the University’s School of Dentistry starting April 1.

The University’s Board of Regents approved Lloyd’s appointment March 12. He will replace William Liljemark, who has served as interim dean since last June.

Frank Cerra, senior vice president for the Academic Health Center, said Lloyd has the vision and leadership skills that will serve the dentistry school well.

“Dr. Lloyd will lead the school to educate and train the next generation of dentists to higher research productivity into partnership with communities around the state and region,” he said.

He said Lloyd, who previously served as the executive

officer at University of Iowa Department of Family Practice, was chosen from a national applicant pool. He also said he will work with dental and other health professionals to achieve these goals.

“He is well suited to meet these challenges,” Cerra said.

Lloyd said he is excited to be a part of a school that has a national reputation for its quality of staff, clinical programs and services to its community.

He said his priorities will include garnering funds for the school, expanding opportunities for faculty and students, and exploring ways for dentists to establish practices in the state in places where they are needed.

Collaboration between dentistry and other University departments could lead to discovering new solutions to complex problems, Lloyd said.

He said by working together and capitalizing on their unique experiences and skills, departments such as dentistry, medicine and technology could accomplish a lot.

“I am overwhelmed with enthusiasm that the faculty and staff want to contribute to the new future of the school,” he said.

Liljemark said it has been an interesting experience serving since last June.

Liljemark, who said he will remain as a University faculty member, said the faculty and students supported him immensely during his tenure.

He advised Lloyd to keep an open and consultative atmosphere with the faculty and dentistry students.