The lights dimmed at 2155 Webster Street on Friday, June 20, 2014, marking the end of an era for the University of Pacific’s dental school. As the doors closed on this iconic building, it’s important to reflect on the rich history and countless memories embedded within its walls. For many, leaving Webster Street was more than just a relocation; it was saying goodbye to a significant chapter in their professional lives.
For nearly five decades, 2155 Webster Street served as the alma mater to over 7,000 University of Pacific graduates, a cornerstone of oral healthcare for Northern California residents, and a welcoming workplace for its dedicated employees. More importantly, it was the cherished home of the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry during its celebrated Golden Age and its rise to national prominence. Estimates suggest that the Webster Street clinic hosted over three million patient visits since its opening in 1967, a testament to its enduring legacy and impact on the community. This substantial contribution to oral health deserves to be remembered as the school transitions to a new chapter.
Architectural Significance of 2155 Webster Street
Designed by the renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), pioneers of the “glass box” skyscraper design, the building at 2155 Webster Street was a notable example of late modernist commercial architecture. Constructed with poured-in-place reinforced concrete, its description from a 2010 Property Assessment Report highlights its key features: “The exterior is expressed in tan precast concrete panels and punched, recessed, bronze anodized metal-framed windows with tinted glazing. Windows are of uniform size.”
While some objective critics might describe its aesthetic as a functional, late modernist high-rise, fitting within the context of the neighboring medical campus and Kennedy Tower, its style presented a contrast to the Victorian homes and businesses prevalent in that part of Pacific Heights. Although not a traditional “ivy tower,” the building did feature ivy on its Sacramento Street-facing wall, and its large brick plaza offered an open space in the urban landscape. Its prime location on Webster Street was undeniably a major asset.
Inside 2155 Webster Street: A Hub of Innovation and Adaptation
The interior of 2155 Webster Street, while intimately familiar to those who worked and studied there, was in a constant state of evolution. Learning and working within its walls often involved navigating ongoing remodeling and construction zones. Over the years, very little of the original interior remained untouched, with areas frequently redesigned and repurposed to meet the evolving needs of dental education and patient care. Despite these constant changes, the building remained not only functional and purposeful but was consistently modernized to an impressive degree. This continuous effort to optimize comfort, convenience, and aesthetics, coupled with diligent maintenance, earned 2155 Webster Street its reputation as “The Ritz-Carlton” of dental schools.
Webster Street Memories: Earthquakes and Unexpected Events
Relocating to San Francisco brings with it the inevitable experience of earthquakes, and 2155 Webster Street was no stranger to these seismic events. During minor tremors, the building would creak and sway gently. However, the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake was a more dramatic experience. During this significant event, the building groaned loudly, throwing occupants off balance and causing some internal damage with fallen lab equipment and bookcases. Despite the intensity of the earthquake, 2155 Webster Street proved its resilience and, as an emergency response facility, remained open in the days following when much of San Francisco was shut down. The dental school played a crucial role in providing care during this time, particularly in addressing the stress-related dental issues arising from the earthquake.
Another unexpected event involved a San Francisco SWAT team storming the clinic. A false alarm about an armed and dangerous individual led to a dramatic but ultimately anticlimactic scene as heavily armed officers swept through the clinic, only to find a surprised dental patient. A strong winter storm once also caused a terrifying moment when a sixth-floor window cracked and vibrated violently in the wind gusts, requiring quick action to secure the area and prevent further damage.
High Times at Webster Street: Celebrations and Notable Figures
For every moment of tension, there were countless high points at the Dugoni School of Dentistry’s Webster Street location. The annual Fleet Week air shows, with the Blue Angels soaring directly over the roof, were a thrilling spectacle. Hosting the American Dental Association (ADA) open house at 2155 Webster Street provided a prestigious platform to showcase the school to the national dental profession. Graduation weeks were always a time of immense pride and celebration. The official naming of the school as the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry was another momentous occasion, marking a significant milestone in its history.
Over the years, 2155 Webster Street welcomed a diverse array of interesting patients. Celebrities like Raymond Burr of Perry Mason and Jeanette Powell, a major benefactor of the University of the Pacific, sought dental care at the school. For many, including the author, Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon, pioneering lesbian and gay rights activists and the first same-sex couple married by former Mayor Gavin Newsom, were among the most memorable patients. Their appointments became opportunities for students to learn about their groundbreaking work and personal histories during a pivotal time in social and legal change.
Hook Mitchell, a legendary street basketball player from West Oakland known for his incredible athleticism and impact on the sport, also came to the Webster Street clinic for smile rehabilitation. His interactions with students, sharing his story and inspiring them to pursue their dreams, left a lasting impression. His remarkable 36-inch standing jump, marked high on the 5th-floor stairwell wall, became a physical reminder of his visit and spirit.
Beyond the Bricks: The People of Webster Street
Ultimately, the essence of the Dugoni School of Dentistry at 2155 Webster Street was not the building itself, but the people within it. As the author poignantly notes, “Bricks and mortar don’t make a Golden Age for a dental school—they kept the humans dry, warm, safe, somewhat organized, while we did our best work, changed lives and bonded together.” The dedication and contributions of faculty and staff were the true heart of the institution. The article specifically acknowledges the contributions of Rhonda Bennett, Karin Johnson Lucero, Duke Dahlin, Dr. Dennis Weir, Dr. Ryle Radke, Dr. Joel Cohen, Dr. David Nielsen, and Dr. Bill Carpenter, recognizing their pivotal roles in the school’s success until its final days at Webster Street.
Special recognition is given to Dr. Bob Christoffersen, the dental school’s longest-serving full-time faculty member. His remarkable 47-year tenure, spanning from the opening to the closing of the Webster Street building, highlights his unwavering commitment. Dr. Christoffersen’s instrumental role in the constant renovations and adaptations of the facility ensured the smooth continuation of the school’s academic mission.
The visionary leadership that orchestrated the complex move from Webster Street to a new location is also commended. Dean Pat Ferrillo, along with Drs. Nader Nadershahi, Richard Fredekind, and Roy Bergstrom, are lauded for their courage and strategic planning in undertaking this ambitious project. University President Pamela Eibeck and the Board of Regents are acknowledged for their crucial support and willingness to take on the risks associated with such a significant transition.
Finally, Dr. Arthur A. Dugoni himself, the namesake of both the old and new dental school buildings, is recognized as the driving force behind the school’s enduring success. His legacy, deeply rooted in the history of 2155 Webster Street, continues to inspire the future of the School of Dentistry at its new location.
Farewell to Webster Street, Hello to the Future
As the chapter at 2155 Webster Street closes, it is with a sense of gratitude and fondness for the memories created within its walls. While there is nostalgia for the old building and its place in the Fillmore neighborhood, the move signifies progress and growth. The future is bright for the Dugoni School of Dentistry, building upon the strong foundation established at Webster Street. The legacy of 2155 Webster Street will undoubtedly live on through the accomplishments of its alumni and the continued success of the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in its new home.
