The Capital Area Dental Society is fortunate to have a core group of individuals driven to help and make this organization succeed. We have a number of past presidents who have remained active on the Board throughout the years. This wealth of experience is a true asset. I applaud all of our leaders who are in it for the “long haul”.

 

We are a rapidly growing society. Every general meeting we induct multiple new members. One of our biggest challenges is to get our new members involved in organized dentistry. I have heard that at times our board is perceived as a “good old boy network”. With the large number of board members with experience, I can certainly see why this could happen. My experience has been exactly the opposite. Our experienced members tend to listen and give advice when appropriate, but the bulk of the work and direction comes from younger board members and committee chairs.

 

Committee chairs are appointed each year. Some carry over from one year to the next, but most serve one year. This creates a great deal of new input of ideas and energy each year. We don’t do things because “that’s the way we’ve always done it”. Each chair can take his group in a direction which can improve it over past years. New ideas and personalities keep this society vibrant. Without that we would not see the constant influx of new members.

 

I would like to single out one of our new dentists who is having a huge impact. She is not on the Board. I asked her to help the Foundation in planning the Gala for this year. Our Gala committee was unsure of the direction we wanted to go and really was looking for something new. At a new dentist function, I asked several of our new members to help plan the event this year. Dr. Misti James came up with an idea for the theme, “A Night in Wonderland”. The Gala is off to an incredible start. Plans are to raise $100,000 in donations and sponsorships. We are already past the halfway point due to the tireless work of Dr. Roland Davies. He’s not a young dentist but is new to the Board this year.

 

I think this illustrates that it is never too early or too late to join in and contribute. As President, I am thankful to have such a strong talent pool to work with to achieve the goals of the Society. This is what allows us to be a strong presence in our community. We are seen as leaders and innovators because of our past and future contributions. Only with a continual influx of fresh talent and ideas will this keep happening. If asked, please say yes and help us out. If you’ve got an idea which could help, let a Board member know. Our Board is truly progressive. Let’s keep it fresh.

 

Stan LaCroix

President, CADS