International Chapters bring AAWD’s mission directly to women dentists around the world — creating spaces for connection, mentorship, leadership development, and meaningful professional engagement within your region. Whether you’re looking to strengthen relationships among women dentists, foster cross-cultural collaboration, or create meaningful networking and mentorship opportunities in your region, starting an AAWD International Chapter is a powerful way to make an impact.
Become an AAWD Member
AAWD offers several membership types for licensed dentists and dental professionals, including International Membership. Interested members can join through the membership application.
All International Chapter officers must be active AAWD members and licensed dentists.
Gauge Interest in Your Area
Use the AAWD Member Directory to identify women dentists in your country or region who may be interested in participating. Reach out personally, introduce the chapter concept, and begin building your local network. AAWD National can also help promote your interest event and connect you with current members in your area.
Host an Interest Event
An informal networking event, informational meeting, or virtual gathering helps introduce AAWD’s mission, explain the chapter concept, and identify potential leaders and members. Interest events may be held in person or virtually.
Identify Potential Officers
You will need four chapter officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer) who are licensed dentists and active AAWD members.
Before you Begin:
Pre-Launch
Considerations
Local Chapter
Formation Steps
Step 1: Choose Your Chapter Officers
Elect at least four officers: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer. All officers must be licensed dentists and active national AAWD members.
Step 2: Develop Your Chapter Bylaws
Use AAWD’s Chapter Bylaws Template to outline your leadership structure, membership expectations, voting procedures, and operational framework.
Step 3: Create Your Activity Plan
Outline your chapter’s goals and plan for meetings, events, and community engagement. Use AAWD’s Activity Plan Template to guide your planning.
Step 4: Determine Local Dues (Optional)
International Chapters may establish local dues or event fees to support chapter operations and activities. National membership dues remain separate and are required for all members.
Step 5: Complete the Confidentiality Agreements
Each officer must read and sign a Confidentiality Agreement to ensure member information is handled securely.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
Once all documents are ready, submit your application online through the AAWD International Chapter Application Form. You will enter your officer roster and upload your bylaws, activity plan, and confidentiality agreements directly through the form.
Once your application is submitted:
- You’ll receive a confirmation email
- AAWD reviews your materials
- If anything needs clarification, the National Office will reach out
- Once approved, your chapter is officially recognized and added to the AAWD Local & International Chapter Directory
Approved chapters also gain access to chapter resources, networking opportunities, and support from AAWD National as they begin building their regional community.
What Happens After You Apply?
FAQs
How many members do we need to start a chapter?
Only four officers are required. Chapters can begin small and grow over time.
Can non-dentists or men join?
Yes. Non-dentists and male dentists may join as Affiliate Members. They cannot serve as officers but may fully participate in chapter activities.
Can our chapter host virtual events?
Yes. International Chapters may host in-person, virtual, or hybrid meetings and events to support member engagement across locations.
Where can I find more FAQs?
For the full FAQ list, download the International Chapter Starter Guide.
Start an International Chapter & Make an Impact
For detailed instructions, templates, and expanded guidance, download the full International Chapter Starter Guide and begin building your local network of women leaders in dentistry.
Whether you’re creating opportunities for mentorship, professional connection, leadership development, or community engagement, your chapter can help strengthen AAWD’s growing global community.
Contact
Have questions or want help getting started?
Email us at chapters@aawd.org or call (800) 920-2293.