Gender and Leadership Trajectories in Academic Dentistry
Publication type
journal article
Publication date
February 12, 2026
Author(s)
Madhu, Nikkita
Kohli, Divya
Sangalli, Linda
Publisher
Wiley
Language
English
Discipline(s)
Geographical area
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Objectives
Despite increased number of women entering dental academia in the last decade, gender disparities persist in leadership roles. This study examined gender trends within administrative leadership across U.S. dental schools.
Materials and Methods
Data on gender, age, employment status, academic rank and administrative title were extracted from the ADEA Survey of Dental School Faculty. Prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess gender representation in leadership over time, stratified by rank and age and adjusted for employment status (aPR).
Results
On average, women held fewer leadership roles than men (17.5% vs. 19.8%,
p
< 0.001), even after adjusting for employment status. Women were underrepresented in senior administrative positions such as department chairs (PRs = 0.57–0.81), division directors (PRs = 0.40–0.72) and deans (PRs = 0.46–0.62). Younger women were more likely to hold leadership roles than those aged ≥ 60.
Conclusion
While overrepresented as allied program directors and other nonspecific directorships, women continue to be underrepresented in more senior leadership roles, underscoring the need for systemic reform. Women continue to hold fewer senior leadership roles than men, emphasising the need for systemic change in policies and institutional culture to facilitate gender equity in academic dentistry.
Part of
European Journal of Dental Education