Leadership Conference – November 17-19, 2016

The AGD held its biannual Leadership Conference at the Renaissance Chicago November 17-19, 2016. Drs. Doug Brown, Bethel Burke, Cheryl Mora and Muzammil Saeed, along with ILAGD Regional Director, Dr. Robert Kozelka had the opportunity to learn leadership skills that will transform the AGD from a good organization to a great one. They attended sessions on Leadership Skills & Insights, Influencing Others, Strategies for Visionary Leaders, and Effective 21st Century Communications for Membership Growth and Development. Sheri Jacobs, President & CEO of Avenue M Group, gave an inspiring keynote address: “Ignite, Create, Inspire: Visioning the New Association World”. The doctors learned how the AGD has to adapt and change to stay current in today’s world of the “sharing economy,” “micro-benefits,” and the “me generation.” We, as an organization need to stay ahead of the rapid pace of change, anticipate our members’ needs, and take the lead in developing innovative strategies for the future. As organization leaders, we must shape the AGD to be more nimble and flexible, less hierarchical, and more networked in order to deliver member value. The future of the AGD and organized dentistry rests in part in how well our leaders can anticipate change, demonstrate authentic leadership, and maximize the power of our talent. The leadership conference helped us develop these skills and many thanks to the AGD Regional Directors for hosting this successful program.