WVU School of Dentistry Officially Opens Expanded, State-of-the-Art Clinics with Eight-Figure Price Tag
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on September 03, 2026
To better prepare tomorrow’s dentists to meet future patient needs, West Virginia University School of Dentistry students are learning and practicing in a newly renovated and expanded state-of-the-art facility at the only dental school in the Mountain State.
Completion of the first phase of the multiphase project brings together modernized Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic clinics, Dental Group Practice, and Dental Innovation Center at the WVU Health Sciences Center. All were previously located at Suncrest Towne Centre.
Phase one also includes significant upgrades to sanitary, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and mechanical and electrical systems.
The official opening of the facility was celebrated today (Aug. 19) with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour of the clinics.
“As the only dental school in West Virginia, we are keenly focused on our land-grant mission to improve the lives of families throughout our state,” Dr. Stephen Pachuta, dean of the School of Dentistry, said.
“The support we received through the federal appropriations process and our alumni and friends for this extensive renovation and expansion project is transformational for West Virginia. It will greatly strengthen our educational base while helping to expand access to care and patient care experiences throughout the region.”
The project was funded primarily through a $12.6 million award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and complemented by the generosity of private support through the School’s capital campaign, Transforming Oral Health: The Campaign for Facilities.
“It is great to be in Morgantown today (Aug. 19), back at WVU’s School of Dentistry to celebrate such a wonderful achievement. This ribbon-cutting represents a significant investment in education in West Virginia,” U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito said.
“By modernizing this facility and providing students and faculty with the tools and technology they need, we are helping prepare the next generation of dentists while expanding access to quality dental care for families across our state. I’m proud to have helped secure the funding to make this possible, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact this investment will have on West Virginians for years to come.”
SmithGroup, an international architectural design company, working in collaboration with WVU Facilities Management, reimagined the space to bring it into the 21st century. In March 2025, the Manheim Corporation team began construction to transform the area that had largely remained unchanged since the School’s founding in 1957.
“Today (Aug. 19) we mark an important milestone for WVU and for the overall health of West Virginia,” President Michael T. Benson said.
“The scope of this project exemplifies how seriously West Virginia University takes its responsibility to serve the people of West Virginia. We must always be looking forward — investing in opportunities for our students who will be the caretakers of our collective future.”
Phase two will focus on areas that include specialty clinics and a dedicated surgical suite. Both projects will encompass approximately 50,000 square feet.
The state’s only dental school, WVU offers a Doctor of Dental Surgery, a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, advanced education programs, and Graduate Medical Education residencies that help address workforce shortages in West Virginia and across the country. The School is fully integrated with WVU Dental, a comprehensive oral healthcare system offering general and specialized dentistry care performed by faculty, resident, and student providers.
“Over 85% of the dentists that practice in our state are graduates of our School,” Pachuta added. “Our commitment to education, community service, and patient care is strong. At the School of Dentistry, we are fully committed to meeting the oral healthcare needs and improving access to care for those entrusted to our care.”
Individuals and businesses interested in supporting the WVU School of Dentistry capital campaign should contact Director of Development Dee O’Palko at 304-413-5049 or dopalko@wvuf.org. Gifts to the WVU School of Dentistry Facilities Fund (2W686) can also be made online at give.wvu.edu/dentistry. Naming opportunities are available for those who wish to honor a loved one’s legacy or explore other options.
All gifts to support the WVU School of Dentistry are made through the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University.
Editor's Note: Story from WVU Today as well as photos that show, top, from left, U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito joining WVU leaders at the August 19 event celebrating the opening of newly renovated and expanded School of Dentistry clinics. Second photo shows Guest touring the newly renovated and expanded clinics at the WVU School of Dentistry following the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Photos courtesy of WVU Photo/Brian Persinger.
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