In Memoriam

Dr. Mike C. Alfano earned his DMD from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and his PhD in Nutritional Biochemistry and Oral Biology from MIT. His visionary and strategic leadership was highly valued and benefited public and private national and global initiatives. He served as Professor, Dean, and Executive Vice President at New York University, where he led with both intellectual rigor and a deep commitment to service. A transformational leader, he was a prolific researcher, educator and gifted communicator, he bridged sectors to advance the public’s health and broaden access to care.

​

Dr. Alfano was a founding member and president of the Santa Fe Group and was instrumental in founding the Consortium, whose membership of nearly 250 leading organizations stands as testament to his commitment to creative thinking and collaborative action. Mike also helped establish the Friends of NIDCR and Nexus magazine and served on numerous advisory boards, including the FDA, AADOCR, and the New York State Dental Foundation.

​

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mike was a generous mentor, a fierce advocate for equity, and a true friend to so many. He faced his cancer diagnosis with strength, curiosity, and unwavering hope. He leaves behind his beloved wife JoAnn, his children, grandchildren, and a legacy that will continue to inspire us. 

 

We honor his life, his leadership, his treasured friendship, and the remarkable imprint he left on the world. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.