Outstanding Dental Service Award

RICHARD V. ESCOBAR, D.D.S., DENT '70

Tucson, Ariz.

Dr. Richard Escobar sees dentistry as more than a science. He sees it as an art form: “My experience and an inherent interest in art — in drawing and painting — have helped me develop an artistic appreciation for what I do.” It also has helped him maintain a successful practice based on serving others for 41 years.

Says Richard, “I’ve tried to live my life in a manner according to and consistent with Marquette’s mission of excellence, faith, leadership and service because it embodies the values my family and I embrace.”

Shortly after Richard graduated, he was recruited to Tucson, Ariz., by Dr. Ed Hoskins, who was ill and needed somebody to care for his practice. Richard has never looked back and has spent his career ministering to underprivileged patients with dental needs. Recipients of his care include those at the Santa Rita Abbey, at the St. Elizabeth of Hungary Dental Clinic and in the Arizona Department of Oral Health Program, among others.

Just as influential as Marquette in shaping Richard’s worldview, though, was his father, Ventura. “He taught me the value of hard work, consistency and persistence,” he says. “He inculcated the values of faith, obligation to family, and responsibility to share one’s gifts and abilities.”

Away from his practice and volunteer work, Richard is passionate about the 100-year-old adobe ranch house he and his wife are remodeling to be period authentic.

“I love living there, working the land and enjoying the desert wildlife,” he says. “This may seem odd for an individual who grew up in the lush green state of Wisconsin. But I can testify that the stark beauty of the desert is captivating.”

Fun facts about Richard:
Favorite book: Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
Someone alive or dead he’d like to have dinner with: His father
The Marquette faculty member who had an impact on Richard: Dr. Herb Engle
Favorite Marquette memory: Christmas Eve at Church of the Gesu