In 2016, under the vision and leadership of Dr. Lisa Lear (Tucson), AzDA launched a new program this year—LEAD:  Leadership, Exploration and Development.  Following the “Call for Applicants,” nine AzDA member dentists were selected to be a part of this program.

This comprehensive, 12-month program is designed to build personal leadership skills through immersion experiences within organized dentistry.  No previous volunteer experience is required; participants receive a thorough orientation to every aspect of the ADA network.

“I am very grateful for the opportunity to practice a profession I love, and I want to be involved in protecting its future, said Fleur Blethen, DDS, a LEAD participant.  “We live in a dynamic, ever-changing world and I believe that leadership throughout organized dentistry is a large part of what enables our profession to adapt and thrive,” she added.

LEAD member dentists participate in the Western Regional Dental Experience (WRDE) where they attended the New Dentists Luncheon; they hear speakers on leadership; participate in a fun team-building events; hear reports on AzDA’s Mediation Services, Parliamentarian procedure; AzDA’s affiliates including the Arizona Dental Foundation, the Arizona Community Dental Clinic and AzDA Services, Inc.  In addition, they attend the Fall Conference in Tucson and participant in Oral Health Day at the Capitol—held every February at the Arizona State Capitol Building in Phoenix, AZ.

Founded in 1909, the Arizona Dental Association is one of 53 constituent/territorial societies of the American Dental Association, and represents over 70% of all licensed dentists in Arizona. More than 2,400 members, comprising every dental specialty, collectively exemplify the AzDA mission of to provide leadership, resources, and advocacy to ensure the success of our members and promote oral health. AzDA is comprised of three components representing different geographical sections of the state: Central Arizona Dental Society, Northern Arizona Dental Society, and Southern Arizona Dental Society.

AzDA’s mission is to provide leadership, resources and advocacy to ensure the success of our members and the promotion of oral health. AzDA’s vision is a strong, successful, quality dental profession in Arizona.