School of Dentistry Alumni Fellow

Jim ’65 and Virginia Woodward ’71

Jim and Virginia Woodward have dedicated their lives to advancing oral health, education, public service and professional leadership. Dr. James D. Woodward earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Louisville in 1965 before completing advanced prosthodontic training at the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston and earning a master's degree in Higher Education Administration. Virginia Woodward earned her Dental Hygiene certificate from the University of Louisville in 1971.

Dr. Woodward joined the University of Louisville School of Dentistry faculty in 1981, where he served as Professor of Prosthodontics and played a key role in educating future dental professionals. A celebrated educator, he received the School of Dentistry's Distinguished Teaching Professor Award and was recognized as Outstanding Career Teacher by the Oral Roberts University School of Dentistry Alumni Association. He also became a nationally recognized pioneer in forensic odontology, assisting with hundreds of dental identifications and contributing to major investigations, including the Carrollton Bus Crash. His scholarship included 23 professional publications, and following retirement, he continued to serve as Professor Emeritus.

Virginia Woodward built an equally distinguished career as a dental hygienist, educator, advocate and leader. As President of the American Dental Hygienists' Association, she championed professional excellence and public awareness, earning national honors including the Warner Lambert Award for Excellence in Dental Hygiene and the ADHA Outstanding Service Award. She also served as Executive Director of the Kentucky Commission on Women, advancing women's health, equity and access to care.

Together, Jim and Virginia have created a lasting legacy of service, leadership and education while remaining devoted to their family, whose accomplishments and shared values continue to reflect the impact of their remarkable lives.