Our Alliance of the ADA logo, "The Reason to Smile", inspired me to recall my experience with the Alliance. About 22 years ago, my husband John and I, fresh out of dental school, moved to Knoxville, TN. John had some family ties in this area, but I did not know anyone. He joined the Tennessee Dental Association and, in that process, signed me up for the Alliance, which is a part of the membership
dues in our state. I received a call from Gwen Luck, a perfect stranger, with an invitation to come to a meeting . . . The friendships and support we give one another as dentist spouses is priceless! Dental health education and legislative advocacy are important, wonderful and very meaningful activities that we, as an organization, support actively. But, the health and well being of our dental families are the most amazing benefits of membership, not just at a local level, but state and national, too. As a team, John and I travel together to state and national meetings. We go to Nashville and Washington, D.C. each year to meet with our Representatives and voice our dental concerns. While he has his meetings, I attend the Alliance functions and feel that I am making a meaningful contribution to dentistry. AADA members come from many different backgrounds with a wide array of careers, hobbies and personalities; yet, we all share a common bond. The Alliance of the ADA is "where the dental family belongs". Please take advantage of the many ideas and resources we have to offer; find YOUR niche and shine! Know that you have people ready to support and encourage you along YOUR journey in the dental family. I would love to hear from you. Laurie Osborn, AADA President- Elect
[email protected]