Ward, Marcus Llewellyn, 1875-1963.

Professor of dentistry and dean of the School of Dentistry at University of Michigan.

Marcus Llewellyn Ward was born on August 5, 1875 in Howell, Michigan. He attended the University of Michigan and received from that institution the degrees of D.D.S. (1902) and D.D.Sc, (1905).

While most dentists preferred private practice, Ward's interest lay in the areas of teaching and research. He spent his entire life doing both as a member of the University of Michigan's School of Dentistry faculty. In 1903 he was named instructor of operative technics and operative dentistry. In 1905 he was named lecturer and in 1908 was made a professor. In 1912 the Dental School formally recognized Ward's changing interests when his title was changed from Professor of Operative Principles to Professor of Dental Physics and Chemistry. This change of title acknowledged Ward's pioneering research into the nature of dental cements and filling materials.

In 1919 Ward the Regents appointed Ward dean of the Dental School. He served in that position until 1934, when he resigned from the deanship but continued as a professor within the school. Between 1934 and 1945, when he retired from teaching altogether, Ward's held the title of Jonathan Taft Professor of Dentistry.

Ward's concern for dentistry carried him beyond the campus to become a key national figure within the profession. He was deeply involved with the Michigan State Dental Association, helping to revive the organization in the first decade of the twentieth century and serving as its president in 1912. He was involved with the American Association of Dental Schools, serving as that group's president in 1925. Ward was also active in the American Dental Association, once again serving in a variety of positions, including president (1939). After his retirement from teaching, Ward remained very active in professional dental organizations. He was particularly concerned about the history of the Michigan State Dental Association, helping organize that group's centennial celebration and subsequently arranging for the writing of a book length history.

Marcus Ward died in 1963.