Dr. Peter M. Di Fiore
Appointed Associate Professor of Endodontics

Dr. Peter M. Di Fiore, a 1966 graduate of NYUCD who also holds an M.S. degree in oral biology from George Washington University and a certificate in endodontics from the United States Army Institute of Dental Research Walter Reed Army Medical Center, has been named an associate professor of endodontics. Dr. Di Fiore, a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics, was previously associate professor of endodontics at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey Dental School (UMDNJ). His research activities focus on identifying the bacteria involved in endodontic infections.

Dr. Olivier F. Nicolay
Appointed Clinical Associate Professor of Orthodontics

Dr. Olivier F. Nicolay, who holds dental degrees from both Columbia University and the Universite Rene Descartes in France, has been appointed a clinical associate professor of orthodontics. Dr. Nicolay was formerly an associate professor of clinical dentistry at the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery, and an associate attending dental surgeon at the New York–Presbyterian Hospital. His major research interests focus on craniofacial biology, the biology of tooth movement, and the involvement of neurotransmitters in tissue remodeling.

Dr. Miriam R. Robbins
Appointed Clinical Associate Professor of Oral Medicine

Dr. Miriam R. Robbins, who holds a dental degree from the School of Dental Medicine at the State University of New York at Buffalo, and an M.S. degree in management and health policy from NYU’s Robert Wagner School of Public Policy, has joined the faculty as a clinical associate professor of oral medicine. Dr. Robbins previously was clinical associate professor in the Department of Diagnosis and Oral Pathology at the University of Maryland Baltimore College of Dental Surgery Dental School. Her research focuses on the treatment of medically complex patients, especially those with head and neck cancer.

Ms. Rita A. Startup
Appointed Assistant Dean for Development and Alumni Programs

Ms. Rita A. Startup, formerly senior director for Alumni Programs and Special Events, has been named assistant dean for Development and Alumni Programs. A member of the NYUCD community since 1976, Rita brings to her new position an outstanding combination of creativity, energy, and skill. “Rita has galvanized NYUCD’s approach to development,” said Dean Alfano. “She is a person who virtually defines the concept of ‘six degrees of separation.’ Not only does she seem to know everyone; she is zealous about getting influential people to help support NYUCD. I am extremely confident that her leadership will add major momentum to our advancement efforts.”