The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) has named New Jersey dentist, Russ Bergman, DMD, its 2026 Residency Program Director of the Year, honoring his exceptional leadership and commitment to shaping the next generation of general dentists.

Bergman serves as vice chair of the Department of Dentistry and program director of the General Practice Residency (GPR) at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, N.J. In that role, he oversees the clinical, educational and financial performance of the department. He previously held the program director position at Lehigh Valley Health Network in Pennsylvania and practiced general dentistry in Essex County, N.J., for nearly 20 years.

Nominated by residents who praised both his clinical rigor and his investment in their long-term careers, Bergman is credited with creating a learning environment where high expectations and genuine mentorship coexist. He has made AGD membership a foundational priority for residents from day one and has consistently encouraged them to pursue the AGD's Fellowship credential as an achievable and meaningful career milestone.

"Dr. Bergman is never content with the status quo," said Darshan Desai, DDS, award nominator. "He is constantly looking for ways to evolve, improve and expand what this residency offers."

A graduate of Muhlenberg College and the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Bergman completed his own residency training at Newark Beth Israel. He previously served as a representative of the Council of Advanced Education Programs on the American Dental Education Association's Board of Directors and was inducted into the American College of Dentists in 2023.