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 Jan Steele sings the praises of Baylor College
of Dentistry – literally. She is part of a three-time international gold-medal winning Sweet Adeline Chorus.
In turn, her colleagues sing her praises for her professional and personal qualities that make her such an important – and enduring – part of the Department of Periodontics as clinical nurse coordinator.
"Jan has contributed invaluably to the success of the postdoctoral training program and the department," says Dr. William Hallmon, professor and chair of periodontics. "We know her as Jan Steele – nurse, CPR
instructor, IV conscious sedation assistant, clinic manager, resident confidant, wise adviser and friend – and as Jan – the person we all love, respect and admire."
While the postdoctoral program in periodontics is celebrating its first 50 years, Steele has been a part of its past 40. Hired in 1964 by Dr. Kenneth Collings, she has served
with four different department chairs and six clinic/program directors, and helped train 148 residents in periodontics.
"While most of us have passed through and experienced the history of Baylor Periodontics, Jan Steele is the living history of Baylor Periodontics!" says Hallmon.
Steele says there have been many changes at Baylor College of Dentistry during her 40 years here. But her favorite aspect of her job is the students.
"They keep me young," she says. "The students at BCD are very interesting."
She adds that she has been able to develop personally and professionally, giving her additional reasons to enjoy her job. Her training as a registered nurse has proven
invaluable in the areas of intravenous conscious sedation, emergency medicine and infection control.
Steele has a son, Scott, two cats and a dog, and a passion for music and family. When she's not working or singing, she spends her time traveling, reading and enjoying animals.
She has no regrets about her longevity at BCD. "This is an excellent institution in which to work," she says.
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