Professor, Orthodontics, School of Dentistry
2012
Bio:
Dr. Richard Kulbersh joined the Department of Orthodontics at University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry in 1975. Throughout his career, he has proven himself as a leader in his field, exemplified a steadfast commitment to the University’s mission, and he has earned the highest respect amongst his colleagues, not only at UDM, but also throughout the national and international orthodontic community.
For the past 26 years, Dr. Kulbersh has served as both the chairperson and graduate program director for the Department of Orthodontics. Since March 2008, Dr. Kulbersh has also served as a consultant and site visitor for the Commission on Dental Accreditation. He has served nine years as a member of COSA, the Council of Scientific Affairs of the American Association of Orthodontists. As a recognized expert in the field of orthodontics, Dr. Kulbersh serves as an examiner for the American Board of Orthodontics national specialty examination.
In addition to contributing to his field, Dr. Kulbersh is a leader and contributor to the UDM mission by providing excellent student-centered graduate education in an urban context. His recognition of the importance of the University’s mission is most evident where he provides access to orthodontic care to patients who otherwise would not be able to receive care. Dr. Kulbersh was a leader in organizing the very first program for free orthodontic care in Michigan at the UDM School of Dentistry, celebrating his department’s 60 Amazing Years of Orthodontic Community Service. In recognition of all that he has done for the School, the Alumni Board honored Dr. Kulbersh as the Alumnus of the Year in 2010.
Dr. Kulbersh has the respect of faculty colleagues and the national and international orthodontic community. He has been recognized nationally with fellowships in the American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists, Pierre Fauchard Academy, and Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU), each distinguished honor societies within the profession of dentistry. Dr. Kulbersh is also a recognized and experienced clinician, having been acknowledged multiple times in the annual peer-reviewed “Best Dentists of Metro Detroit” award by Hour Detroit Magazine. Dr. Kulbersh has served as secretary/vice president/president of Michigan Association of Orthodontists, chairperson of the Study Committee, Midwest Component of the Edward H. Angle Society of Orthodontics and president of the NU NU Chapter of the OKU at UDM. Most significantly, in 2010, Dr. Kulbersh was awarded the Dale B. Wade Award from the American Board of Orthodontics. Only one individual is selected nationally to receive this award, which honors an exemplary senior clinician and diplomat who demonstrates exceptional dedication to orthodontics through clinical excellence and/or devoted teaching.
Kr. Kulberesh’s many accomplishments, awards, and contributions in the field of orthodontics are a testament to his commitment to the University and its mission.
Dr. Kulbersh was presented by Mert Aksu, Dean, School of Dentistry and the Distinguished Faculty Award was presented by Antoine M. Garibaldi, President of University of Detroit Mercy on November 30, 2012.