Answering the call of Why
The work of achieving our “Why” does not happen by chance. It takes a focused, concerted effort by everyone involved in our organization.
In his book, Start with Why, author Simon Sinek implored organizations to look deep inside for the reasons for their organization’s existence. On the ABPD website, our “Why” is stated as “every child, every adolescent, and every individual with special needs deserves quality care.” Throughout my journey in this organization, everyone I have encountered aspires to uphold this “Why.”
The work of achieving our “Why” does not happen by chance. It takes a focused, concerted effort by everyone involved in our organization.
Looking back to the beginning of my ABPD volunteer journey, I see someone who seemed to be already operating at capacity. At the time, I was a father, struggling to provide for my family. I was a Naval Reserve Officer, striving to provide leadership to my various units and supporting my personnel. I was a faculty member, hoping to impart some of my knowledge and experience to general dentists on how to treat their pediatric patients well.
Then came an invitation to serve as an Examiner for the Oral Clinical Examination. For some reason, I said yes. That experience was so inspiring that, in addition to all other responsibilities I had, I felt compelled to do even more. Becoming a part of the board of directors of 
ABPD was not something I had imagined for myself, but I took a chance and went through the application process.
Each of you brings a diverse array of perspectives and experiences that are vital to the continued growth of our profession. As the ways in which adults learn continue to evolve, so too must our approaches to education and certification. We need your insight, innovation, and involvement to help guide ABPD in our commitment to stay ahead of these changes.
Soon, applications for the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Board of Directors will be available on your ABPD Dashboard. I strongly encourage you to review the eligibility and requirements of the role on the ABPD Website and consider applying.
You are the future of the ABPD.
The role of a director is to serve as an advocate for board certification and support the core values of ABPD by being knowledgeable about and supporting the vision, mission, and strategic plan of ABPD and by advancing the oral health of children and the specialty of pediatric dentistry for the pediatric dental professionals and their patients. The directors govern, develop policy, and set a course.
The ABPD Board of Directors are responsible for the direction of the organization. The mission of ABPD, the Why and How of ABPD, frames all discussions and guides the direction.
The Board of Directors is comprised of six directors and is a six-year commitment.
Board of Director applications are available on the dashboards of ABPD Diplomates that meet minimum requirements. Applications are due October 15. For more information, click here.
View this article as it originally appeared in Pediatric Dentistry Today