About ASDA

The American Student Dental Association is a national student-run organization that protects and advances the rights, interests and welfare of dental students.

In This Section

50 years ago dental students first came together to organize what is now known as the American Student Dental Association. Today ASDA connects students on local and national levels and gives them the training they need to be better leaders and professionals.

Learn more about ASDA’s governance structure, the association’s history and who we are today.

Leaders and Governance

The Board of Trustees is the governing body of ASDA and is responsible for administration and management of the association. The House of Delegates is the association's legislative body, responsible for electing officers and determining policies, initiatives and directives. Councils carry out the organization's work in a number of key program areas throughout the year. The principles laid out in the strategic plan and governing documents direct the association's leaders in decision-making, setting priorities and measuring success.

Who Are Our Members?

ASDA has more than 23,000 student members, located in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

ASDA 101

ASDA connects students around the country and provides the training they need to be better leaders and dentists. Learn more about the association.

Mission Statement

The American Student Dental Association is a national student-run organization that protects and advances the rights, interests and welfare of dental students. It introduces students to lifelong involvement in organized dentistry and provides services, information, education, representation and advocacy.

Vision Statement

To advance the dental profession by developing exemplary leaders and inspiring member advocacy.