Dr. Joseph Burnham Dental Scholarship

This scholarship was established in memory of Dr. Joseph “Joe” Smallwood Burnham, who passed away in November 2015. Dr. Burnham earned his B.S. in Dentistry and Doctor of Dental Surgery from UNC-Chapel Hill. He also served as an Officer in the U.S. Navy from 1968-1970 and began practicing dentistry in Winston-Salem in 1970. In 1974, Dr. Burnham and his partners founded the first large group dental practice in Winston-Salem. He continued to practice until he retired in 2011, however Dr. Burnham never lost touch with the local dental community. Throughout his career, Dr. Burnham spent much of his time volunteering and helping to prepare the next generation of dental professionals, leaving a legacy of commitment and selfless service for his students and fellow dental professionals to honor. He served as the Secretary Treasurer, President and an Executive Committee Member for the N.C. State Board of Dental Examiners. Dr. Burnham was an active member of the Forsyth County Dental Society, serving as President in 1995 and he was also a member of the, ADA, AGD, Piedmont Society for Advanced Dental Studies, Dental Implant Associates of N.C. and Second District Dental Society. He spent several years as a grader and floor monitor for the NC State Board Licensure examinations. Dr. Burnham was at the forefront of dental implant surgery in this area and was an active volunteer to several service, therapy and charitable organizations. He was also a Life Member of the UNC-CH and UNC Dental Alumni.

Dr. Burnham will always be remembered as the definition of a true gentleman and for his passion for his wife Sally and children, his love for the beach, being outside, sunsets, his beloved Tar Heels, gardening, cooking, playing golf and racquetball, coaching his kids in soccer, his sense of humor, hilarious jokes and pranks, and his never ending love and support to his family, friends, colleagues and patients.

The scholarship is awarded to a Dental Hygiene or Dental Assisting student who has completed one semester of the program, has a minimum 3.0 GPA, demonstrates financial need and has a desire to be involved in a local professional society after graduation.