The Leadership Institutes to cultivate pipeline of aspiring leaders across tripartite
Program’s launch is first step in implementing updated strategic directives on inclusion, equity
The American Dental Association is reaffirming its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all members while addressing the factors that limit the advancement of oral health and dentists’ success.
In February, the ADA Board of Trustees unanimously adopted four updated strategic directives that emphasize a stronger integration of inclusion and equity within the Association’s member engagement and professional outreach activities. The first directive focuses on advancing inclusive leadership through the launch of The Leadership Institutes.
“Organized dentistry is teeming with leadership talent — not just at the national level, but throughout our entire tripartite,” ADA President Brett Kessler, D.D.S., said. “The Leadership Institutes will expand access to the ADA’s development program, equipping more dentists and dental students to lead in the communities where they live and work. The grassroots talent we cultivate today could become the trailblazers shaping the global stage of oral health tomorrow.”
The Leadership Institutes is an evolution of the ADA Institute for Diversity in Leadership, decentralizing the ADA’s long-standing leadership development program based in Chicago to reach more dentists in the four regions representing all ADA districts.
The 15-month training program will include synchronous virtual learning and small-group workshops tailored to leadership pathways in participants’ respective regions. The application period for the inaugural class will be open March 15-June 15.
The free program is open to all active, licensed dentists and third-year dental students residing in the U.S. Each year, the ADA will select 30 dentists and 10 dental students to participate.
Faculty will include ADA Institute for Diversity in Leadership alumni; members of the ADA Champions Network, which seeks to ensure dentists feel embraced and represented at each level of the tripartite; and leaders from state and local dental societies.
“As an alumna of the ADA Institute for Diversity in Leadership, it brings me joy to see the ADA expanding this program to build future leaders for the organization,” said Michelle Thompson, D.D.S., a member of the institute’s class of 2016-17. “The IDL program gave me an opportunity to expand on my knowledge and skills, which I was able to apply immediately. Since then, I have served in multiple leadership roles throughout the tripartite and other organizations. This opportunity will allow us not only to enhance the diversity of perspectives within our leadership but also provide our members an opportunity to learn, build strong professional networks, lead and make an impact throughout the profession.”
To learn more and apply, visit ADA.org.
