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 Dr. Thomas K. Hasegawa Jr.'s
warm smile cheers those he meets. His commitment to ethics and professionalism inspires his colleagues, and his co-workers recognize his devotion to
excellence in clinical services. But it is his dedication to Baylor College of Dentistry and its students that drives this man of principle.
A BCD employee for 17 years, Hasegawa is associate dean for clinical services. He and his wife, Diane, have been married 32 years. The Hasegawas have two children: Nick, 24, and Lisa, 19.
Hometown: Los Angeles
Place I'd like to live/retire: Somewhere near the water and a college
Role models: Dr. William E. Murphy, first chair of general dentistry at BCD, is my role model of a true professional. He offered me a clinical teaching position in 1976.
From that time forward, I learned about caring, integrity, diligence and clinical excellence by his example and many of my BCD colleagues over the years.
Personal motto: Nothing in this world is done without hope.
Best thing about my job or BCD: BCD has name recognition for nearly 100 years of excellence in dentistry and for graduating quality professionals. I feel fortunate to be a
part of the BCD family, and the best thing about my job is the opportunity to promote this commitment to excellence through my actions every day.
Career highlight: Teacher of the Year
If I wasn't at BCD, I'd …: …be taking college classes somewhere.
Life philosophy: Make a positive difference in the world.
Pet peeves: The promise of the paperless office (paper is my life), managing the e-mail crunch daily, and shirt collars that "shrink" as I mature
Favorite vacation destination: Poipu Beach in Kauai, Hawaii, has beautiful white sands and blue seas. It is a peaceful place.
 Dream car: 1996 Chevy Impala SS
Favorite hobbies: Fishing (bass) and drumming (set): My parents taught me the enjoyment of fishing, and I have been drumming since the fourth grade.
Word that best describes me: Committed (in the non-institutionalized sense)
Something you might not know about me:
I was a drummer in a C&W band in Nebraska.
Top three passions: Ethics, fishing and the Mavericks
What my colleagues say about me: "Tom is one of dental education's best practitioners. He exudes professionalism and is a wonderful role model for our students," said Dr. D. William Harman,
associate dean for student and alumni services. "Tom's humor and creativity help all of us keep things in perspective. I enjoy working with him."
Dr. Mohsen Taleghani, professor and chair of general dentistry, agrees. "It has been my privilege to work with Tom on many different levels over the past 17 years. He has
always given 200 percent in every position he's held," he said.
"Tom is the most dedicated person I know; he is always willing to do what it takes to get the job done no matter what," Taleghani continued. "You know that if Tom is
handling it, it will be done correctly and on time. I am constantly amazed at how aptly and easily he manages the many committees, meetings and responsibilities that are required of him."
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