Peter DeSciscio ’85 Named President of New Jersey Dental Association

Professor of Restorative Dentistry Peter L. DeSciscio ’85

Professor of Restorative Dentistry Peter L. DeSciscio ’85 became the 153rd president of the New Jersey Dental Association (NJDA) June 8. He will lead the organization, which has 3,000 members, including many RSDM alums, for a year.

“I have had the pleasure of knowing Dr. Peter DeSciscio for close to 30 years,” said Maxine Feinberg, former American Dental Association president, in an NJDA press release. “I am confident that NJDA, its members, and the public will be well-served during his tenure as president.”

A native of Edison, NJ, DeSciscio joined NJDA in 1990. Ever since, he took on many leadership roles. He was the president of Middlesex County Dental Society, a local component of NJDA, and the organization’s trustee, secretary, treasurer, vice president, president-elect, and now president.

“I'm very honored and feel privileged,” said DeSciscio. “Having taught at RSDM, I know quite a few practicing dentists in the state, whether they were my classmates or former students, and it’s rewarding to be able to hold a position like that and know so many of the members.”

As the president, DeSciscio has numerous items on his agenda.

First, he will spearhead a task force committee to help address the workforce shortage of dental assistants, hygienists, and office staff. Second, he will “meet with underrepresented dental groups to ensure the ethical and professional viability of our profession.” Third, he will chair a search committee to find NJDA’s next executive director.

In addition to NJDA, DeSciscio currently serves as vice chair of the Exam Committee for the American Board of Dental Examiners; a member of both Finance and Steering Committees of the Commission on Dental Competency Assessments; and a faculty advisory board member for Colgate Dental Educators.

At RSDM, he has been teaching for 35 years and has held many other roles, including assistant dean for Government Affairs, president of the Academic Assembly, and president of the Alumni Association. He is presently on the Appointments and Promotions Committee.

DeSciscio received his BS in biology from St. Peter’s University in Jersey City. Following that, he obtained his DMD from RSDM in 1985 and did a general practice residency at the Jersey City Medical Center. He owns a private practice in South Amboy, NJ.