Distinguished dental alum and advocate receives AU President’s Award

Augusta University has named Judson “J. Ben” Deal, DMD, a distinguished alumnus, longtime supporter and former foundation leader, as the recipient of the 2026 President’s Award, one of the university’s highest honors recognizing exceptional service and commitment.

Augusta University President Russell T. Keen presented the award to Deal on May 14 during the President’s Garden Party, a special donor recognition event.

Deal, a 1974 graduate of the Dental College of Georgia, built a respected dental practice in Augusta over more than 40 years while maintaining a deep and enduring connection to his alma mater. His longstanding leadership, philanthropy and advocacy have helped shape the university’s growth and impact.

“Dr. Deal’s life is a powerful example of how one graduate can make a lasting impact through service, leadership and generosity,” Keen said. “Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of knowing him as both a colleague and a friend, and I’ve seen firsthand the integrity, humility and commitment that have defined his service to Augusta University.”

Deal’s leadership includes serving as chairman of the Medical College of Georgia Foundation Board of Directors and as a member of the Medical College of Georgia Advisory Board. During his tenure, he helped guide transformative initiatives, including the expansion along Augusta’s riverfront, the development of student housing on the Health Sciences Campus and efforts to strengthen connections between the sciences and the liberal arts.

He also played a key role in stewarding some of the most significant private gifts in the institution’s history, supporting scholarships, endowed faculty positions and critical facilities that continue to benefit students and faculty today. Additionally, he and his wife created the Dr. & Mrs. J. Ben Deal Dental College of Georgia Scholarship to give back to his alma mater while supporting aspiring dental professionals.

In addition to his leadership and philanthropy, Deal has contributed as an educator, serving as an assistant clinical professor at DCG and mentoring future dental professionals. His professional accomplishments include recognition as a Fellow of the American College of Dentists and being named one of Augusta Magazine’s “Top Dentists.”

What makes Deal’s connection to Augusta University especially meaningful is a legacy that spans generations. His father, the late John D. Deal, MD, was a graduate of the Medical College of Georgia. His son, Tyson Deal, MD, is also an MCG graduate and physician, and his son, Brad Deal, is a graduate of the university’s Hull College of Business. Today, that legacy continues with a grandson attending Augusta University.

“This is more than a family tradition,” Keen said. “It reflects a lasting belief in what this university stands for and in what it makes possible for students, families and communities.”

The President’s Award recognizes individuals whose dedication, leadership and service have made a significant and lasting impact on Augusta University and its mission.

Deal, a native of Statesboro, Georgia, is co-founder of Augusta Family Dentistry and remains active in the community following his semi-retirement in 2018. He and his wife, Donna, have two sons and three grandchildren.