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2018 Federal Services Award Recipient Dr. Jane Han

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THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN DENTISTS ANNOUNCES TOP AWARD

FEDERAL SERVICES AWARD GOES TO DR. JANE HAN, LT., U.S. NAVY

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The American Association of Women Dentists (AAWD) recently awarded Lt. Jane Han (U.S. Navy), DMD, with the 2018 Federal Services Award.

About Dr. Han

Dr. Jane Han grew up in Jacksonville, Fla., where she attended the University of North Florida. She gained a deep appreciation for the opportunities given to her and wanted to give back to our country, so she joined the U.S. Navy through the Health Professions Scholarship Program. Dr. Han earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Upon graduation, she commissioned as a lieutenant and worked as a general dentist at Marine Corp Recruit Depot Parris Island in Beaufort, S.C.

Dr. Han currently serves aboard the USS New York, homeported in Mayport, Fla. She has accepted many responsibilities, including being the only dentist for the sailors and marines onboard. She also takes a special interest in tobacco cessation among the sailors and marines.

Dr. Han enjoys snorkeling, playing with her dog, and traveling with her husband, Alex, who is currently an endodontist in the Jacksonville, Fla., area.

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2018 Federal Services Award
Presented by the American
Association of Women Dentists

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AAWD President Dr. Berg states, “I am pleased with the selection of Dr. Jane Han to receive our Federal Services Award. We appreciate the military service she has provided and the leadership advice and mentoring she has offered to those in the dental field.”

AAWD Director of Federal Programs Dr. Carol Wong, Cdr., U.S. Coast Guard, comments, “Lt. Han’s accomplishments are highly commendable and well deserving of this award. Her dedication to duty is a reflection of her commitment to our profession, and through her leadership, she serves as a role model for other women dentists.”

Dr. Han’s nominator had this to say about her: “Since commissioning into United States Naval Service, Lt. Han has proven herself to be a role model for all sailors to aspire to become. Along with providing the best dental care to her crew, she always volunteers for extra duties to foster teamwork and inclusiveness. She has volunteered for extra assignments and operational billets and always makes time to mentor and educate service members who show interest in the dental field. She has mentored U.S. Navy corpsmen and Marines, who will be applying to dental school in the next few years. Lt. Han is a strong leader in U.S. Navy dental care, as well as an officer serving in the military. As the only female department head, she serves to encourage other women in the Navy to aspire to higher leadership positions.”

About the Award

The Federal Services Award recognizes the lifetime achievements made by an AAWD member dentist in the Federal Services arena. The award is presented to a woman dentist who exhibits role model qualities that positively reflect the image of women dentists and commitment to the profession. Dr. Han will be officially presented the Federal Services Award during the AAWD 97^th Annual Conference, scheduled for October 4-6, 2018, in Savannah, Georgia.

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About AAWD

Founded in 1893, the goal of the American Association of Women Dentists is to serve as the leading resource for advancing, connecting and enriching the lives of women dentists. AAWD offers a variety of programs and services that benefit the unique needs of women dentists. For more information, visit our website at aawd.org or call 800-920-32293.

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October 2, 2018
2018 Lucy Hobbs Taylor Award Goes To Dr. Leslie E. Grant

THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN DENTISTS ANNOUNCES LUCY HOBBS TAYLOR AWARD GOES TO DR. LESLIE E. GRANT

The American Association of Women Dentists (AAWD) recently awarded Leslie E. Grant, DDS, MSPA, with the Lucy Hobbs Taylor Award, the organization’s top honor.

About Dr. Grant

Dr. Leslie E. Grant is a native of Charlotte, North Carolina. She graduated from high school in Gary, Indiana, and received a Bachelor of Science Degree, Cum Laude, from Boston University. Dr. Grant obtained her Master of Speech Pathology and Audiology Degree from the University of Washington in Seattle. She has worked at the Washington State Cerebral Palsy Center, The Kennedy Hospital for Children in Boston and for the North Jersey Developmental Center in New Jersey.

Dr. Leslie E. Grant, DDS, MSPA

Dr. Grant entered the University of Maryland Dental School in 1982 and received her Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree in 1986. She completed a General Practice Residency at Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson, New Jersey (1987), and provided dental care in her Baltimore City office, “Dentally Speaking,” for more than 20 years. Most recently, Dr. Grant worked for the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners as the Chief Dental Officer.

Dr. Grant participates in many professional dental affiliations. She served on the Board of Directors of the Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention, from 2010-2017, and currently serves on the Boards of the Dr. Edward B. Shils Entrepreneurial Fund, Baltimore County League of Women Voters, and Oral Health America. In 2015 she was named as one of Maryland’s “Top 100 Women” by the Maryland Daily Record, and in 2006 she was named as one the “One Hundred Most Influential African Americans” by Ebony magazine. She is a member of the National Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Association of Women Dentists, the American Dental Association and the American Speech, Language, Hearing Association. Dr. Grant is a Fellow in both the American and the International College of Dentists. She served as Secretary of the Maryland Dental Society for six years and as a delegate for six years. Dr. Grants’ NDA activities include serving on the Reference Committee, Chairing the Committee on Constitution and By-Laws and serving as Speaker of the House for five years. She was the President of the National Dental Association in 2006, and served as Legislative Chair from 2007 through 2012. Dr. Grant is passionate about advocating for children and young adults who are in foster care. She has been recognized twice by the Baltimore County Council for her support and engagement with foster care initiatives and programs.

AAWD President Dr. Tamara Berg states, “I am thrilled with the selection of Dr. Leslie Grant to receive our organization’s highest honor, the Lucy Hobbs Taylor Award. Dr. Grant exemplifies the female leader, mentor, educator and humanitarian, in one outstanding voice for females in dentistry throughout the country. I offer my sincere congratulations to her on receiving this recognition by her colleagues.”

About the Award

In 1859 Lucy Hobbs Taylor moved to Cincinnati, intent on attending medical school. After being refused admission based on her gender, Taylor studied privately under a professor who encouraged her to turn to dentistry. Following her studies in dentistry, Taylor started her own practice in Cincinnati. Finally, in 1865, she gained professional recognition when she was elected to membership of the Iowa State Dental Society and served as a delegate at the American Dental Association convention in Chicago, Illinois. That November, she was admitted to the Ohio College of Dental Surgery, where she became the first woman to earn a doctorate in dentistry.

The Lucy Hobbs Taylor Award is the highest honor given by the AAWD and was first presented in 1983. AAWD presents this award to a member who exemplifies a true professional with accomplishment in one or more areas of dentistry, organized dentistry, academia, government, anthropology, archeology, philanthropy and consulting. With at least 10 years membership in AAWD and a career as a licensed dentist for 20 years or more, the recipient demonstrates a record of mentoring women dentists and/or service to organizations that further the cause of women in dentistry. AAWD will officially present the award to Dr. Grant on Oct. 6, during AAWD’s 97^th Annual Conference in Savannah, Georgia.

About AAWD

Founded in 1893, the goal of the American Association of Women Dentists is to serve as the leading resource for advancing, connecting and enriching the lives of women dentists. AAWD offers a variety of programs and services that benefit the unique needs of women dentists. For more information, visit our website at aawd.org or call 800-920-2293.

August 8, 2018
Smiles for Success: More Than 20 Years of Treating Dreamers

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Mary Martin, DDS Smiles for Success Board Liaison

In the past few years, “dreamers” has been a buzz word in our world, meant only for children of illegal immigrants, who may or may not be deported. But I want you to pause for a few minutes and remember a time when that word was used for all who had a dream to create a better life for themselves. In 1995 while I was president of AAWD, a few members approached me with a dream they had about helping other women. Those dentists, Dr. Judith McFadden of Philadelphia and Dr. Donna Rumberger of New York City, dreamed of a program where women who wanted to enter the workforce and eliminate their dependence on welfare could do so with a confident smile and a pain-free mouth. These women thought AAWD could be the driving force behind such a program, so the idea was brought to our Board. Of course, it was overwhelmingly approved, and a pilot program was started in New York.

Smiles for Success is not just about a smile; it’s about transforming lives! Behind every applicant is a heartfelt story about dentistry, community investment, and personal sacrifice to overcome hardship. The story could not be told without the collective efforts of many to transform an overlooked person into a community success.

Women dentists have often struggled to get where they are today—whether it is securing bank loans, leadership roles in organized dentistry, or promotions in academia. A part of AAWD is having the desire to help other women achieve their goals, which for many of the SFS patients, seems just as far away as dental school graduation did to us at one time. The treating dentists in the Smiles Program get involved in their patients’ stories and are excited to watch the participants evolve during the treatment. They are rewarded again when these ladies write letters telling them they have a job and it is all because of them! So how does this program work? To be clear, the program is not intended to simply provide free dental care for the needy. (There are other places for that care.) The participants who enter the program will receive dental care only after careful pre-selection based on their need for treatment, their performance in a job training program and assessment of their motivation toward achievement. So as you can see, this program indeed takes a community of people to be involved. A successful local program needs AAWD members who are partnered with an agency that actually trains women for an occupation. Some AAWD groups partner with other local charities for clothing and transportation. For the past several years, most Smiles activity has been in the university setting; however, we are looking forward to launching new programs, once again in pilot cities. This Smiles for Success dream has the potential to become very large and unmanageable very quickly, so we are truly fortunate to have International Association Management as our management company, as well as an outstanding SFS Board of Directors, many of whom have served for numerous years.

How can you help? The Smiles for Success Foundation is a 501(c)3 taxexempt, charitable organization, and as such, your donation is tax deductible. First, we need each of our members to donate to Smiles for Success. If you belong to a local or student chapter, hold a raffle or meeting once a year with donations going to SFS. Second, keep your eyes and ears open for organizations and corporations that may be willing to work with Smiles and partner in helping these less fortunate women. It would be a win-win-win for all of us. Many companies want to appear “woman friendly” at this point in time. Let’s give them an opportunity! Last, seriously consider becoming a volunteer treating dentist whenever Smiles announces a program in or near your city.

AAWD turns 100 years old in 2021. Help make Smiles for Success one of the most outstanding contributions to dentistry in the last 100 years! DREAM BIG!

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August 6, 2018
AAWD Position Statement on Sexual Harassment

March 16, 2018

Sexual harassment situations permeate the news headlines today. Sexual harassment is a relevant topic that all successful organizations must address. It can greatly decrease employee morale, reduce productivity and even generate costly lawsuits.

In order to ensure that each AAWD member is treated with respect and dignity, Dr. Karyl Patten, AAWD Immediate Past President, recently led a committee to establish and implement an official position statement for the organization. The AAWD Board approved the official statement on March 16, 2018:

The American Association of Women Dentists both supports and promotes equality and compassion in the workplace, universities, and professional gatherings of any type or size. AAWD upholds a person’s right to work in an environment free of discrimination, harassment, or hostility.

This statement can be found in the AAWD Policy and Procedures Manual.

May 8, 2018
2019 Board of Directors – Call for Nominations

Nominations are now being accepted for several directorships for the American Association of Women Dentists, a voluntary organization, whose mission is to be “the recognized resource for advancing, connecting, and enriching the lives of women dentists.”

The candidate must be a current AAWD member in good standing with the desire to lead the organization into its next phase of growth and policy leadership. Self-nominations are encouraged.

Prior leadership experience would be beneficial, but is not a necessity. The use of electronic communication and web-based services is essential. Time commitments vary by position; however, there are monthly meetings and two in person meetings. There is a personal financial obligation to serve on the board; however, partial travel reimbursements are available.

Please click on the buttons below to download the nomination form. Complete the nomination form, attach your nominee’s resume, and send all materials to the National Office no later than April 23, 2018. If you are a student who is interested in serving as a Student Representative, please review the document that outlines the requirements and eligibility for that position.

The 2019 Slate of Officers will be announced at the 2018 Annual Conference, which is scheduled for October 5-6, in Savannah, Georgia.

Please contact the AAWD National Office at 800-920-2293 should you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Dr. Karyl Patten

AAWD Immediate Past-President and Nominating Committee Chair

Download Nomination Form Download Student Representative Requirements

April 5, 2018
AAWD and Spickler Wealth Management Group at Merrill Lynch Podcast

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Spickler Wealth Management Group at Merrill Lynch Podcast

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Our introductory Podcast on the new AAWD member benefits and partnership with the Spickler Wealth Management Group at Merrill Lynch. Please reach out to the Spickler Wealth Management Group at aawd@ml.com with any questions.

The AAWD Retirement Solution is based on sound structural elements that have been reviewed and successfully tested based on the fiduciary responsibilities specified in the law and regulations, from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Department of Labor (DOL), Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), and other government agencies.

With the AAWD Retirement Solution, employers outsource the functions and liability of the retirement plan administration. TAG becomes each employer’s Retirement Plan Support Team in action and accountability. TAG eliminates a majority of your plan administration burden, allowing you to focus on your business.

Retirement Solution Handout

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February 6, 2018
The American Association of Women Dentists Announces New Product of the Year

Pensacola, Florida
December 6, 2017

The American Association of Women Dentists (AAWD) is pleased to announce VideoText™ as the recipient of the 2017 New Product of the Year Award.

The award was presented by AAWD President Dr. Karyl Patten to Atlanta Dental Supply executives Gary Kirkus and Tom Richardson on September 23, 2017, during the 96^th Annual Conference of the AAWD held at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort, Florida.

Atlanta Dental Supply is the first distributor of the new technology from Dental Innovations Inc. “We are pleased to introduce this practical and effective mode of patient education,” said Tom Richardson, president of Atlanta Dental Supply.

“We are excited to bring this solution to the Dental industry and harness the engaging power of the mobile device in the operatory for the benefit of the patient and the dental team” said Michael Boerner, founder and CEO of Dental Innovations Inc., also an Atlanta based company.

The VideoText™ solution enables a patient’s own mobile phone to become an instant, chair-side educational device by simply asking the patient to text a practice-specific procedure code, instantly summoning three, short, sequenced videos describing the recommended treatment, wrapped in the dentist’s brand.

“Patient education is critical to case acceptance, but it often creates workflow bottlenecks in both time and external equipment required to cue and convey the information. The ubiquitous mobile phone now in virtually every pocket and purse materially solves that problem and makes the information portable and reviewable with no cross-contamination clean up,” said Boerner.

Boerner explained that the subscription-based VideoText™ solution is unique because it bypasses common user experience barriers, such as email addresses, passwords, usernames and App downloads, while still delivering specific, practice-customized information at the height of interest and time of need.

VideoText™ links also connect directly to Google reviews and are being integrated into automated patient text reminder systems, providing practice-branded video education in advance of patient appointments.

About Atlanta Dental Supply:

Atlanta Dental Supply is a 100-percent employee-owned, full service distributor of dental supplies, equipment, software and technology, backed by full service and support. Office design and practice management services are also available. In addition to Web ordering, Atlanta Dental offers “breeze” in-office ordering software and exceptional value on all products and services. For more information on Atlanta Dental, visit www.atlantadental.com.

About Dental Innovations:

Dental Innovations Inc. is working with leading dentists on next-generation mobile video technologies previously developed by CEO, Michael Boerner, for Fortune 500 clients.

VideoText™ is a dramatically simplified method for patient engagement and education designed to remove friction and close knowledge gaps, resulting in improved case acceptance and operational efficiencies. VideoText™ allows patients to “send themselves a text” and instantly receive procedure specific video content at the height of interest and time of need using practice-specific key words, without the use of Apps, search, logins passwords. To see the patient experience, simply text Hornbrook DI to 33733 for an instant demonstration. For more information, visit www.dentalinnovationsinc.com.

December 6, 2017
AAWD Installs New Officers For 2018
December 4, 2017

Pensacola, Florida

The American Association of Women Dentists Installs Dr. Tamara Berg as 2018 President

The American Association of Women Dentists (AAWD) recently installed its new officers, including Tamara Berg, of Yukon, Oklahoma, as president of the organization. Dr. Berg has been a leader in organized dentistry for more than 20 years. Previously president-elect, Dr. Berg will serve in this role for one year. The installation of officers took place during the AAWD Annual Meeting, held September 23, 2017, in Amelia Island, Florida.

Officers who were elected during the AAWD Annual Meeting include:
- Brittany Bergeron, DDS, of Baltimore, Md., as President-Elect;
- Daphne Ferguson Young, DDS, MSPH, of Nashville, Tenn., as Vice President;
- Jodie Wing Lee, DMD, of Kansas City, Mo., as Secretary;
- Tanya Gibson, DDS, of Kansas City, Mo., as Treasurer;
- Elizabeth Ramos, DDS, MSD, of Indianapolis, Ind., as Editor; and
- Karyl Patten, DDS, MPH, JM, of Atlanta, Ga., as Immediate Past President.
The AAWD board is responsible for overseeing operations, while maintaining the commitment to the mission of the organization. Founded in 1921, AAWD is the only association that exclusively serves the needs and represents the interests of female dentists.

For more than 96 years, AAWD has supported women in dentistry. Originally a social organization, the association adapted to changing times and member concerns. After World War II, when women dentists forfeited positions held in men’s absence, AAWD guided members toward new goals, and the tradition of mentoring was born. As membership increased, AAWD became a national network for employment opportunities and scientific exchange.

Dr. Tamara Berg of Yukon, Oklahoma, who was recently installed as 2018 President of the American Association of Women Dentists.

Brittany Bergeron, DDS, of Baltimore, Md., who was recently installed as 2018 President-Elect of the American Association of Women Dentists.

Daphne Ferguson Young, DDS, and MSPH, of Nashville, Tenn., who was recently installed as 2018 Vice President of the American Association of Women Dentists.

Jodie Wing Lee, DMD, of Kansas City, Mo., who was recently installed as 2018 Secretary of the American Association of Women Dentists.

Tanya Gibson, DDS, of Kansas City, Mo., who was recently installed as 2018 Treasurer of the American Association of Women Dentists.

Elizabeth Diaz Ramos, DDS, MSD, of Indianapolis, Ind., who was recently installed as 2018 Editor of the American Association of Women Dentists.

Karyl C. Patten, DDS, MPH, JM, of Atlanta, Ga., who was recently installed as 2018 Immediate Past President of the American Association of Women Dentists.
December 4, 2017
2017 Award Winners

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The 2017 AAWD Award Winners

We are excited to announce the winners of the Colgate Research Award:

Quynh Nguyen
Ayey Mourikhorasani
Karen Ben-Elazar
Lori Donnelly
Jennifer Dolan
Chijioke Ulasi
Ritika Bansal
Nameeta Gupta
Sangita Murali
Shylon Mathew

The winner of the Lucy Hobbs Taylor Award:

Dr. Maxine Feinberg

The winner of the Federal Services Award:

Capt. Renée W. Joskow, DDS, MPH, FAGD, FACD

Diplomate, American Board of Dental Public Health CAPT, USPHS

The winner of the Student Of The Year Award:

Maeve Daly

The winner of the Chapter Of The Year Award:

University of California, San Francisco

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October 16, 2017