Harrel recognized for nearly 40 years of membership, service to AAP

Dr. Stephen Harrel has kept busy over the years. In addition to maintaining his Dallas-based private practice, Harrel — also a clinical professor in periodontics at the college — has managed to devote nearly four decades to active membership in the American Academy of Periodontology, where he has spoken at annual meetings, chaired committees and received a fellowship award.

The academy recognized Harrel’s years of commitment by presenting him with the 2011 Distinguished Service Award during the group’s annual meeting Nov. 12-15 in Miami Beach, Fla. It’s a good fit, considering the honor is awarded based on at least 20 years of service to the academy in more than one area.

Harrel, a 1972 alumnus who has in part dedicated his career to private-practice based research and the development of grant-funded technologies, is not one to jump into the spotlight.

“I have always considered it a privilege to work within my specialty organization, the American Academy of Periodontology,” says Harrel. “I did not expect to be honored for my work, but I am extremely grateful that they have given me this award for my service.

 “It is humbling to have my fellow periodontists give me this award.”