Donald S. Strachan, D.D.S., professor of dentistry in the School of Dentistry and associate professor of anatomy in the Medical School, retired from active faculty status on March 31, 1996.

Dr. Strachan received his B.A. degree from Wayne State University in 1954 and his D.D.S., M.S., and Ph.D. (anatomy) degrees from the University of Michigan in 1960, 1962, and 1964, respectively. Dr. Strachan joined the faculty of the University of Michigan in 1963 as an instructor in the School of Dentistry and as an instructor of anatomy in the Medical School. He was appointed assistant professor in the School of Dentistry in 1964 and in anatomy in 1966. He was promoted to associate professor in both anatomy and the School of Dentistry in 1969 and to professor in the School of Dentistry in 1973. Additionally, Dr. Strachan served an important and effective role as assistant dean of admissions in the School of Dentistry from 1969-89.

He is a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Omicron Kappa Upsilon, and Sigma Xi honor societies. Dr. Strachan has served the School of Dentistry, the Medical School, and the University through membership on a number of committees among which are the executive committee, curriculum committee, admissions committee, the human subjects committee, research in medical education, advisory committee on computer activities, minority recruitment initiatives committee of the health sciences, the opportunity program committee, student relations committee, and the minority student recruitment initiative in health and biological sciences task force. Dr. Strachan's service has extended to membership in professional societies, including the National and Central Associations of Advisors for the Health Professions, the American Association of Dental Schools, and the International Association for Dental Research. He also served as the president of the Ann Arbor section of the International Association for Dental Research from 1966-67. Additionally, Dr. Strachan served through his chairmanship of both the unit and regional United Way campaigns.

Dr. Strachan has contributed to the teaching mission of both the School of Dentistry and the Medical School through his instruction in human gross anatomy and head and neck anatomy. He has also contributed through research in the areas of histochemistry and oral histology and educational research dealing with dental admission criteria. He has contributed to the scientific literature through professional journals, as well as through chapters in several textbooks. Dr. Strachan also developed numerous teaching tapes and manuals and has been a lecturer at major national meetings and study clubs.

The Regents now salute this distinguished health sciences educator by naming Donald S. Strachan professor emeritus of dentistry and associate professor emeritus of anatomy.