In 1993, a handful of practicing periodontists came together as a group to exchange information about new materials and scientific research and to problem solve patient care issues. The group included Sylvan Feldman, Lenny Garfinkle, Paul Rosen, Bob Sacks, Arnold Sindler, and Karl Zeren – all of them graduates of the University of Maryland. In selecting a name for the study club, the group paid tribute to Dr. Gerald M. Bowers – a mentor, teacher, and practitioner with close ties to graduates of the postgraduate programs in periodontics of the United States Navy and the University of Maryland. 

Initial meetings followed a journal club format in which attendees found a great sense of camaraderie.  Within a short time, a constitution and bylaws were drafted.   Membership was to be open to anyone having an interest in periodontics, especially regenerative periodontics.

The Study Club was incorporated in 1993 as a 501(c)(3) educational organization. The following year, the American Dental Association recognized the Study Club as a continuing education provider, and the Dr. Gerald M. Bowers Study Club in Periodontology, Inc. (GBSC) has maintained its CERP certification continuously since 1994.  
Annual meetings of the GBSC have featured world-renowned educators, clinicians and researchers whose efforts have advanced the art and science of regenerative periodontics. 

The Gerry Bowers Study Club recognizes a void in Periodontology continuing dental education designed for generalists.  Planning is underway to expand substantive offerings especially designed to fill this need. In addition, GBSC offers CE addressing the needs of periodontists, and is exploring a symposium in implant dentistry & regenerative periodontics.

The annual membership fee is $50. Revenues from the GBSC support causes related to periodontal education, especially research and attendance at educational forums by residents in the postdoctoral program in periodontology at the University of Maryland Dental School.