As part of For Ever Better: The Campaign for the University of Rochester, Jack Howitt ’56, ’62 (Pdc), DDS, and Harriette Howitt have committed more than $2 million to establish an endowed professorship—the first ever to be established at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health (EIOH). The Jack and Harriette Howitt Professor of Dentistry will provide permanent support to a faculty leader, strengthening EIOH’s ability to recruit and retain exceptional talent and advance dental education, research, and patient care.
“The Howitts are extraordinary champions of dentistry, education, and community service,” says Eli Eliav, DMD, PhD, MBA, and EIOH’s director. “This endowed professorship reflects their deep belief in our mission and enhances our ability to drive discovery, educate future clinicians and scientists, and expand care in the communities we serve. Their generosity will shape the future of dentistry.”
“This felt like the right time to give back in a meaningful way,” says Dr. Howitt. “For 25 years, the institute was the basis of my focus—from my years as a student and faculty member to my commitment to expanding access to care through efforts like the SMILEmobile and, later, the dental urgent care center. Harriette and I wanted to build on the momentum in dental education, recognize exceptional work, and help create something lasting that honors where I began while supporting the institute’s future.”
The gift also reflects the Howitts’ commitment to supporting senior faculty—an area where such dedicated resources have historically been more limited within dental education.
The professorship builds on the Howitts’ long-standing connection to the institute. Dr. Howitt earned his bachelor’s degree in general science from the University, completed his pediatric residency at Eastman Dental Center (later EIOH), and served on its faculty for many years, including as division chair. He was board certified and a member of the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
The Howitts believe in EIOH’s vital role in serving the community—particularly patients who lack access to dental care. The couple also highlights their family’s three-generation history with the University of Rochester and their hope that this gift will build on the institute’s momentum and expand its impact in the years ahead.
In the 1960s, while completing his training at Eastman Dental Center, Dr. Howitt established a private pediatric dental practice. During this time, he met Stanley Handelman, DMD, a faculty mentor who encouraged him to pursue private practice alongside academic work. The two later combined their practices at what is now North Coast Dental Group, establishing both a professional partnership and a longstanding personal friendship.
At the same time, Dr. Howitt played a pivotal role in launching and directing Eastman Dental Center’s first mobile dental unit, bringing much-needed care to children in the Rochester area who lack access to dental services. That early initiative laid the groundwork for what is now EIOH’s signature SMILEMobile program, which today includes three vehicles serving more than 1,000 patients each year.
In 1977, Dr. Howitt expanded his entrepreneurial pursuits by establishing Midland Management and its subsidiary, Midlakes Construction and Development. Over time, his professional focus shifted from private dental practice to expanding his management and real estate development enterprises.
Even as his career evolved, Dr. Howitt’s dedication to dentistry remained constant, as did the couple’s commitment to philanthropy and service. In 2011, they made a leadership gift to EIOH, which established the Howitt Urgent Dental Care facility, the first dedicated clinic for walk-in emergency dental treatment and an increasingly vital community resource.
Additionally, the Howitts have supported the Al Sigl Community of Agencies, a collaborative network serving children and adults with disabilities and special needs. He was a longtime member of its Board of Trustees, including as chair. Dr. Howitt has also served on the boards of the Jewish Community Federation and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.
“The Howitts’ incredible generosity starts here at home, strengthening EIOH as well as the broader Rochester community,” adds Dr. Eliav. “We are profoundly grateful for their ongoing partnership and for the lasting difference they make at EIOH and in the lives of the patients we serve.”
Philanthropy and engagement are critical to the future success of the University. Learn how you can support For Ever Better: The Campaign for the University of Rochester. To make a difference at EIOH, contact Reinaldo Maluli, Director of EIOH Advancement and Alumni Relations.
–Kristine Kappel Thompson, April 2026