The Dermatology Department’s Origins

history timeline

Here’s a quick journey through Dartmouth Dermatology’s history, one that’s packed with breakthroughs, trailblazing docs, and a dedication to making skin health better for everyone:

1947-48

Dr. Lobitz kicks things off by founding the dermatology clinic, followed closely by the launch of a residency program with Dr. Don Cole as the first grad. The early days had a small, close-knit group of patients and practitioners, focused on inpatient dermatology.

1960's

Expansion under Dr. Clendenning added expertise in dermatopathology, positioning Dartmouth as an early leader in CTCL and contact dermatitis treatments.

1970's

Dartmouth leads the way with cutting-edge psoriasis treatments. Dr. Baughman established a major PUVA site and introduced lasers for advanced care, a big leap forward.

1980's

Dr. Steven Spencer brings Mohs surgery to Dartmouth for skin cancer treatment and expands the psoriasis center, cementing Dartmouth as a place for top-tier skin care.

1990's to
2000's

Leadership rotates with Dr. Dan Collison, Dr. June Robinson (first female Mohs surgeon), and Dr. James Dinulos, who started Dartmouth's Pediatric Fellowship. Big names like Dr. Kathryn Zug, an allergic contact dermatitis expert, helped elevate Dartmouth’s national reputation.

2020 and Beyond

Dermatology officially became a department in 2020, with Dr. Shane Chapman as its inaugural chair. Today, the department thrives with 13 specialty clinics and ongoing research, including Dr. Jillian Rork's recent study on psoriasis in individuals with Down syndrome, funded by a $300K NIH grant.


With decades of innovation, Dartmouth Dermatology is a leader in skin health and training,
shaping the field and preparing for an even brighter future.