Trustee Report – Summer 2022

Hello from a hot and humid Arkansas. We are experiencing some earlier than normal heat. Reminds me of summer growing up the Dallas, where when you touch the car door or steering wheel you feel like you may lose a layer or two of skin. It’s a fun and busy time after school is out. I imagine you guys are dealing with the issues we have in NW Ark of having trouble getting a full staff. My colleagues around the country are all complaining of the same thing. It is an interesting time to be sure, but isn’t it wonderful to get to be a dentist who has the opportunity to shape young people’s health and impact their lives?

The Annual Session in San Diego was the second highest attended meeting in our 75-year history and we all had a great time reconnecting with each other. There were over 5500 people registered for the event of which almost 3000 were dentists or dental students. As usual, the AAPD staff and the Annual Session Committee worked wonders. The opening party was a big hit and all events were well planned. Kudos to the dynamic father/son duo of Drs Jacob and Andrew Lee and the Scientific Program Chair, Dr Anthea Mazzawi.

Our District Caucus was a very good and well attended meeting. We had an opportunity to hear about some of the successes and challenges from pediatric dentists in the other states in our region. Dr Emily Fourmy led the discussion and we had reports from every state for the first time in many years. We have some amazing colleagues who shared from their states. The reports were given by Dr. Aaron Bumann (MO), Dr. John Fales (KS), Dr. Ben Morgan (TX), Dr. Dan Haong (CO), Dr. Kris Henderson (NM), Dr. Suzanne Fournier (LA), Dr. Janna McIntosh (OK) and Dr. Jeff Rhodes (AR). During the discussion about Affiliate Member status it was great to have an affiliate member from Oklahoma, Dr. Twana Duncan, who is the affiliate member of the Sedation and Anesthesia Committee share her viewpoints. We had reports from newly elected president, Dr. Amr Moursi (NY) and Vice President, Dr. Scott Smith (CO). Thanks to Michelle Jacobi for arranging everything and wrangling everybody together.

Next year the Annual Session will be in Orlando. The opening ceremony is going to be at SEAWORLD!! The Annual Session Committee are already working hard to put on another memorable experience of learning and camaraderie. Reza Ardelan and Charlie Bertot will create an amazing event. Umbrella drinks are sure to be included.

AAPD Board of Trustees Report
Until the minutes of the BOT meetings are publicized I cannot go into details, but I know that the Board has heard the concerns of pediatric dentists concerning Affiliate Members and their status in the AAPD. Look for updates after the minutes are approved.