Dr. Leonardo Marchini, department executive officer in the Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics, has been named a 2026 Health Access Hero through Sun Life’s Health Access Heroes program.
The program recognizes changemakers who are working to improve health access and support those in need.
As part of the honor, Sun Life will make a $10,000 donation to the charity of Marchini’s choice. Marchini has selected the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics’ Geriatric and Special Needs Program as the recipient of the donation.
The gift will support the program’s ongoing work to provide care, education, and training focused on improving oral health access for older adults and individuals with special health care needs.
Marchini is a professor in the Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry and an expert in geriatric dentistry. His research focuses on oral diseases and conditions affecting older adults, patient satisfaction with dental care, ageism in dentistry, care for individuals with special health care needs, and innovative approaches to dental education. Marchini has led and contributed to numerous grants and research initiatives focused on improving oral health access for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and rural communities.
In addition to his research, he provides daily clinical care for older adults and individuals with special health care needs, integrating these experiences into his teaching and scholarship. His work has been recognized by several professional organizations, and he is a fellow of the International College of Dentists, the International Association for Disability and Oral Health, and the Special Care Dentistry Association.
Sun Life is a financial services organization that provides insurance, benefits, and health-related solutions to individuals, families, and employers. Through programs such as Health Access Heroes, Sun Life recognizes individuals and organizations working to improve access to health care and support healthier communities.