Jane F. Martone, DDS, MAGD, was honored at the 2025 Convocation Ceremony in Montréal on July 12. This award was presented annually to a distinguished educator who has made exceptional contributions to the art and science of dentistry and has significantly advanced the mission and principles of AGD.

“Dr. Martone is a pioneer, a mentor and a lifelong learner whose influence continues to shape the future of general dentistry,” said Chethan Chetty, DDS, MAGD, AGD president. “Her career embodies the very spirit of this award, and we are honored to recognize her incredible legacy of service and leadership.”

Named in memory of AGD’s founding father, the Dr. Thaddeus V. Weclew Award celebrates individuals whose work exemplifies a deep commitment to comprehensive dental care, education, and the mentorship of future dental professionals. Martone’s remarkable career spans nearly three decades of private practice and dental education, where her tireless dedication to teaching and advancing oral implantology has earned her widespread respect and admiration.

Martone began her journey in dentistry as the first in her family to attend college. She earned her DDS from Marquette University and completed advanced residency training in oral medicine and surgery. Further implant training at the Medical College of Georgia, along with IV sedation certification and mentorship under implant dentistry legend Dr. Hilt Tatum Jr., helped shape her distinctive approach to care and education.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been inspired by the people around me — teachers, patients, students,” Martone said. “I love practicing dentistry and working with residents, knowing that one day they’ll go on to bring genuine smiles to their patients. This recognition is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who’s ever inspired me to keep going, learning and giving back.”

As both a practicing dentist and a dedicated educator at the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University, Martone has consistently merged clinical excellence with compassionate instruction. Her influence is felt not only through her direct patient care, but also in the lives of the countless dental residents she has guided — particularly in surgical and full-mouth rehabilitation procedures for medically compromised patients.

Martone holds numerous honors and designations, including AGD Fellowship, Mastership, and Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition. She is a diplomate of both the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry and a fellow in several esteemed professional societies, including the International College of Dentists, the Pierre Fauchard Academy and the American College of Dentists.