by Alisha Katz, APR

At the heart of everything Leigh Feenburg does is a deep commitment to helping others. “My handshake is my word,” Feenburg said. “I want to make an impact as best I can.”

Feenburg, a graduate of the UF College of Health & Human Performance’s Department of Health Education & Behavior, always knew he wanted to help people reach their full potential and saw a future in medicine. After having spent several years in the corporate vision and dental sector, Feenburg decided to pursue a noncommercial approach to independently operated dental offices, putting these business owners at the heart of his business model. Currently, Feenburg serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Advanced Dental Brands, a New England-based Partnership Network that provides career growth and autonomy to its partners across the Northeast.

“I’ve always been driven to positively impact those I’m responsible for and the world at large,” Feenburg said. “I intentionally surround myself with those smarter than I am—I don’t need ‘yes’ people. I want to hire the right people for the right roles, trust them and give them the autonomy to excel.”

Feenburg, who has hired several Gator dentists and businesspeople, attributes much of his success to the university. 

“UF was a time of self-exploration and understanding who I was going to become,” Feenburg said. “I lived in a fraternity house with people from all different walks of life, creating a microcosm and a melting pot.”

In addition to his role as CEO, Feenburg also serves as part of the college’s Department of Health Education & Behavior’s industry advisory board, where he and other industry experts support students and elevate the department’s visibility in the health careers sector. Whether it is talking to students, giving tangible advice or connecting them with others in the industry, Feenburg believes in the importance of treating college as an opportunity for growth and discovery.

“There’s value in not knowing exactly what your destination is,” Feenburg said. “You should be open, curious and fluid to all the opportunities out there. Push yourself into areas you’re uncertain of, and don’t be afraid to fail at something new. Most importantly, find people in your life who can mentor you, who truly care about you and want you to be successful.” 

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