Major General Surindar N. Bhaskar Scholarship Endowment
Education has long been central to the Bhaskar family legacy.
The Major General Surindar N. Bhaskar, USA (Ret.), DDS, MS, PhD Scholarship Endowment at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry was created in his honor.
Major General Surindar N. Bhaskar was an Oral Pathologist, Periodontist, Educator, Author, and the first Asian-born General in the United States Military. His distinguished career in the U.S. Army spanned leadership, research, and clinical excellence. He served as Chief of Oral Pathology, Director of the United States Army Institute of Dental Research, Chief of the United States Army Dental Corps, and ultimately as Assistant Surgeon General for Dental Services. In recognition of his service and contributions, he was awarded both the Legion of Merit and the Meritorious Service Medal.
Beyond his military accomplishments, Dr. Bhaskar was a prolific academic and internationally respected lecturer. He authored more than 200 scientific papers and four textbooks, including Synopsis of Oral Pathology and Oral Histology and Embryology. He also contributed to numerous additional dental texts and delivered over 10,000 hours of lectures throughout the United States, becoming widely regarded as one of the leading educators in his field.
Following his retirement from the U.S. Army, Dr. Bhaskar continued his lifelong commitment to learning by completing a residency in Periodontics at the UCLA School of Dentistry–VAMC Wadsworth. He later moved to Monterey, California, where he practiced Periodontics while continuing to teach and lecture nationally.
The scholarship endowment established in his name at the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry supports students with limited financial means as they pursue their professional goals. It reflects Dr. Bhaskar’s enduring belief in education, mentorship, and service to others — values that continue to guide our practice today.
