The Illinois AGD participated in the orientation program for the Class of 2022 at Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois on Tuesday, August 28th. Dr. Charles Martello, President of the Illinois AGD participated in a panel discussion on organized dentistry along with representatives from the Chicago Dental Society President, Dr. Lou Umburgia, the Illinois State Dental Society President, Dr. Barbara Mousel, and from the American Dental Association, Dr. Loren Feldner. Dean Harold Haering, introduced the doctors on the panel and asked them to advise the students on the role that each organization will play during their academic years and in their dental medicine careers in the future. The students voiced concerns about the student debt crisis and the future of the dental profession and health care in general. Several students wanted to know how to become involved in organized dentistry as a student. The doctors discussed the importance of organized dentistry in developing their leadership and networking skills. They also emphasized that continuing education is an essential component of overall professional excellence. The AGD, CDS, ISDS and ADA are all committed to helping the students during their academic years, their transition from student to dentist and in their future careers as dentists. Dr. Brian Caraba and Kathy Ridley, ISDS Director of Meetings & Membership also attended the program.
