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John Chukwuedum Aniemeke DDS, MS, FICOI, an alumnus of UT Health Science Center San Antonio School of Dentistry, has been awarded the prestigious H. Dalton Conner Humanitarian Award by the American Academy of Periodontology for his outstanding dedication to serving those in need. The award is presented annually to an Academy member in acknowledgment of their selfless act and contribution of time and expertise in an ongoing commitment to service, benefiting a deserving population in the United States or abroad and serving as an inspiration to others.

Aniemeke graduated from dental school in his home country of Nigeria and later moved to the United States to work. He attended the School of Dentistry’s first International Dentist Education Program (IDEP) class and then continued to complete his periodontics residency, graduating in 2012. Following graduation, he opened a successful private practice in Live Oak, Texas. In addition to his practice, Aniemeke has been part of the school’s Periodontics Practice Management Course and is now also teaching periodontics part-time in the Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency program.

"I am deeply grateful to God for the privilege to serve and for the opportunity to give back to the community. This recognition is a testament to his grace and the unwavering support of my family, mentors, colleagues and community. I am honored and inspired to continue striving for excellence in all that I do and to further contribute to the betterment of humanity,” said Aniemeke about receiving the award.

Aniemeke, along with his wife Chidinma Aniemeke, MD, a geriatrician at the university, has been instrumental in leading various projects aimed at serving the economically disadvantaged and promoting better health outcomes in both the San Antonio community and his native Nigeria.

 “I could not be prouder than I am of John for the work he has done. His servant leadership extends from our local San Antonio community back to his home country of Nigeria,” said Brian Mealey, DDS, clinical professor, periodontics. “His efforts are emblematic of what we try to emphasize in our periodontics residency program – lead by example, work hard then work harder, give more than you receive, live beyond yourself.”

In addition to running his practice and being a husband and father. Aniemeke and his wife are the founders of Bethel Covenant Assembly of God where he is lead pastor. Mealey believes Aniemeke’s commitment to serving others, his exemplary leadership qualities and his dedication to making a positive impact have earned him the admiration and respect of his colleagues, mentors and community members.

David Cochran, DDS, PhD, chair, Department of Periodontics, reflected on Aniemeke, “I could not be more proud of him as well. He was a real delight as a resident and has continued as he set up his practice and grown it so successfully. He is constantly giving back. I also knew Dalton Conner, the award’s namesake, and John is the perfect representative of the values that Dalton and the award epitomize. Well done, John! We are all so proud of you!”