Term Length: Annual Session 2025 - Annual Session 2026
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be an active predoctoral member at the time of application and throughout the term of office.
- Must be able to attend all required meetings listed below and conference calls when necessary.
- Will complete projects or resolutions assigned by the House of Delegates or Board of Trustees.
- Must be able to complete assignments and responsibilities by the established deadline.
- Experience serving on the Council on Professional Issues is strongly preferred.
Estimated Time Commitment
Estimated time commitment is 4 hours/month which includes council calls and action items. Certain months may require more time such as planning for Service Month, planning for D&I week, reviewing Dentistry in the Community Grant applications, and reviewing Community Builder of the Year nominations.
Meetings
Must attend and actively participate in the following meetings:
- April 26-27, 2025: In-person Spring Council Meeting (Chicago, IL)
- September 23-24, 2025: Fall Council Meeting (Virtual)
- February 6-8, 2026: In-person ASDA Annual Session (Minneapolis, MN)
National leaders must participate fully (whether it be virtual or in-person) in council business via email, meet deadlines, and attend all council calls.
Funding for required in-person meetings includes: transportation to/from meetings, meals, hotel accommodations, a per diem based on the length of the meeting and reimbursement for baggage fees.
Responsibilities
Community outreach strategy
- Bridges the gap between local, district and national community engagement or outreach leaders.
- Develops resources for chapters to utilize for community engagement or outreach initiatives.
- Works closely with staff to establish annual community outreach objectives.
Diversity and Inclusion Strategy
- Supports and encourages equity for all students within dental education.
- Work with staff to develop and implement educational programs and resources that raise awareness about unconscious bias, cultural competency, and the benefits of diversity in the dental profession.
- Encourage communication and collaboration with dental schools, dental associations, and policymakers to foster an inclusive environment within the dental profession.
Council management
- Supervises the activities of the Council on Professional Issues.
- Approves all council meeting agendas and minutes.
- Mentors council associates.
- Assists with orientation and transition of new council members.