Celebrating esteemed alumni

Dr. Franklin Boyles ’74

Distinguished Alumnus

Despite years and miles of separation, Dr. Franklin Boyles of Odessa, Texas, still credits his alma mater for the skills he relies on every day. Continuing education courses – and loyalty — draw him back each year as he keeps that Dallas connection close.

On Boyles’ most recent return, he picked up something even more impactful: the Distinguished Alumnus award from Texas A&M College of Dentistry’s Alumni Association. He accepted the honor Jan. 24 at the college’s annual

alumni homecoming reception, held this year at the new Clinic and Education Building. Boyles credited mentors who made a lasting impression.

“Thank you to my dental professors, and a special thank you to Dr. Amp Miller and Dr. Alvin Padget, who willingly shared their knowledge and techniques with me, which I still use daily in my practice,” he said. “I am honored to be chosen for this award and proud to be an alumnus of the most prestigious dental school in the U.S.”

Boyles has practiced general dentistry for 45 years and keeps his skills sharp with annual CE courses. His son and fellow alumnus, Dr. Stephen Boyles ’16, worked alongside him for two years before opening his own practice in nearby Midland, Texas.

The 1974 alumnus has never forgotten the importance of student mentoring. He works as a private practice preceptor, regularly sharing his expertise and knowledge. He also mentors Boy Scouts on their dentistry merit badge, among other volunteer roles.

Boyles was 2018 president of the West Texas Academy of General Dentistry. He has been selected a Permian Basin “best dentist” numerous times since 2003. He also is a longtime member of the Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association and Texas Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. Drew Vanderbrook ’12

Outstanding Young Alumnus

For Dr. Drew Vanderbrook, being a dentist goes beyond providing health care.

With that above-and-beyond mindset, he can now chalk up more recognition for his efforts, adding to a growing list of professional kudos. Vanderbrook accepted the Outstanding Young Alumnus award during Texas A&M College of Dentistry’s recent alumni homecoming festivities.

The accolade recognizes an alumnus with fewer than 10 years of professional experience who has a profound impact on the dental school, profession and community.

“Drew is intentional about his desire to influence others,” said Dr. Chad Capps, Alumni Association president, in presenting the award. “He is one you can count on because he truly cares. He says yes to volunteer opportunities and is a doer in his profession.”

The honoree opened Vanderbrook Family Dentistry in Dallas’ Lakewood community in 2014. “It is such an honor to be recognized this early in my career. I hope to continue to work to be a better dentist and leader for our profession,” he said.

Vanderbrook serves on the Texas A&M College of Dentistry Alumni Association board and is Dallas County Dental Society president-elect. In 2015, he was voted New Dentist of the Year by DCDS. He is active with the Texas Dental Association, American Dental Association and Texas Academy of General Dentistry.

While attending dental school, Vanderbrook was class president, student council president, and a representative for the Honor Council. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Texas A&M University.

“I’m so thankful for the education and training I received at this school. It was the professors, staff, and friends and family who have been my mentors and molded me into the dentist I am today,” he said. “I am grateful for that.”