Augusta University
Stacey Hudson
Dr. Jane Martone, assistant clinical professor in the Dental College of Georgia Department of Restorative Sciences, recently earned the 2025 Dr. Thaddeus V. Weclew Award. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) conveys this award to educators who show outstanding dedication to general dentistry and professional ethics.
The Weclew Award honors dental educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication to general dentistry education, ethical leadership and promotion of the AGD’s principles. Martone surpasses these criteria through her extensive service and profound impact on the dental community.
For over 20 years, she has volunteered one week each month at the DCG, mentoring residents in the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) and General Practice Residency (GPR) programs. Martone balances this volunteer work with her full-time dental practice in Westfield, Massachusetts. She travels to Augusta at her own expense to mentor residents and contribute her skills in sedation dentistry, restorative dentistry and implant dentistry.
“Dr. Martone’s extraordinary dedication to dental education and patient care truly sets her apart,” said Dr. William Bachand, program director for the AEGD residency and interim director of the GPR residency. “She consistently goes above and beyond, generously sharing her expertise with our residents month after month for over two decades.”
Her volunteer efforts directly align with the Weclew Award’s criteria, which call for a nationally recognized educator, a professional role model and a promoter of the AGD’s ideals. Her work exceeds these expectations, reflected in the decision in 2015 to name the AEGD/GPR Resident Office in her honor. This was a first for a volunteer faculty member in the new dental building, and was supported by approximately $30,000 in donations from faculty, alumni and her grateful former students.
“Her compassion and empathy for patients makes her the ideal recipient of the Dr. Thaddeus V. Weclew Award,” said Dr. Nancy Young, dean of the college. “We at the DCG are incredibly grateful for her unwavering service and the lasting impact she has on our programs and the future of general dentistry.”
Martone’s connection with the DCG began with a single continuing education course, quickly evolving into a long-standing commitment to education and mentorship. Her example inspires residents and colleagues alike, embodying the ethical and professional standards that the award celebrates.
Since 1952, the Academy of General Dentistry has supported more than 40,000 general dentists. The organization focuses on continuing education and advocacy to help dentists improve their practices and provide excellent oral health care.
The DCG congratulates Martone on receiving this award and appreciates her ongoing dedication to educating future dentists.
