BIDDEFORD — Dean of the University of New England College of Dental Medicine James Hanley, DMD, who was instrumental in developing cutting-edge programs at the CDM, died Monday after a battle with cancer, according to a statement from the university.

Hanley had begun the search for a new dean of the CDM, in cooperation with the university, after his illness progressed.

“This is a tremendous loss for the UNE community,” said UNE President Danielle Ripich. “Jim’s leadership of this new college and his care for his students has inspired us all. Jim was well-regarded and liked by faculty, staff and students. He shared a wealth of expertise, but in addition, he was a good person, friend and mentor. His loss will be felt by all of us.”

Hanley joined UNE in the spring of 2014. Over the course of his distinguished career, he demonstrated strong leadership and dedication to his practice, earning numerous honors and awards, according to the release.

Hanley was a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a graduate of the American Dental Education Association Leadership Institute. He was also a member of the American Academy of Periodontology, the American Dental Education Association, the American Dental Association and the Maine Dental Association. 

He served as a site visitor for the Commission on Dental Accreditation and on the board of directors of the Eastern Dentists Insurance Company. In addition, Hanley was a fellow of the International College of Dentists, the American College of Dentists and the Academy of Dental Sciences; he was also a member of Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honorary Dental Society.

Hanley is survived by four grandchildren, three daughters and his wife Marian. A scholarship in his name will be established at the UNE College of Dental Medicine.