The University of Southern California School of Dentistry was recently given a gift of $1 million from the Beauchamp Family Foundation to endow a professorship honoring a USC professor who pioneered dental outreach to underserved communities.
The gift will establish the Charles M. Goldstein Endowed Professorship in Community Dentistry in honor of Dr. Goldstein, who currently serves as director of community outreach programs and is known to many at USC as the "father of the mobile clinic."
During Dr. Goldstein's 12 years as mobile clinic director, the program expanded with a broader service area and comprehensive care for children. He initiated a history of
external funding, which continues to sustain this program that has served the oral health needs of nearly 77,000 children in underserved areas of California since its inception in 1965.
Established in 1999, the Beauchamp Foundation was created by Dorothy Beauchamp to honor her late husband, Dr. Robert Beauchamp, and his commitment to providing quality dentistry at affordable prices to the underprivileged. Dr. Beauchamp founded Western Dental Services, the largest staff model provider of dental services in California and one of the nation's leading dental health maintenance organizations. The company presently operates 154 dental centers throughout California and Arizona, over 50 of which provide orthodontic services.
"It is with great pride that the Beauchamp Family Foundation has funded a professorship in honor of Dr. Goldstein," said David Beauchamp, the Beauchamps' son. "Both Dr. Goldstein and my father have been innovative in leading the way in caring for the dental needs of all Californians."
Harold Slavkin, dean of the USC School of Dentistry, expressed his gratitude to the foundation and the Beauchamp family. "The Goldstein professorship honors two individuals who have been pioneers in providing dental care to the needy," Slavkin said.
"Dr. Beauchamp's dental centers have served a population that otherwise would not have access to care, and Dr. Goldstein is one of our most beloved professors," Slavkin added. "His dedication has made it possible for thousands of children to receive dental care free of charge throughout the state."
