Happy summer,

It seems like just a short time ago that we were celebrating the new year but now July is already upon us. My term as president is winding down and we've arrived at my final president's message for this newsletter. The world around us appears to be in a state of chaos politically and socially as well as in the dental and healthcare arenas. Your Board of Trustees and I want to assure you that while change often leads to a state of chaos, as we move forward and leave the past behind, we promise to always lead with our members at the forefront. Your views, ideas and feedback are valued by the board. It is you who will guide us and add value to everything we do.

Your BOT will continue to focus our leadership efforts on sharing practical ways to better utilize our resources and platforms to make a difference – professionally and personally. I was able to supply testimony on our members' behalf during the Health Services Committee Hearing in April. That testimony in turn has resulted in the Board of Dental Examiners' revisiting the expanded restorative functions to allow for the placement of a class II restoration, along with the previously allowed class I and V. Ultimately this testimony brings us closer to the possibility of becoming certified in expanded restorative functions. I would encourage you to watch for administrative rule changes on the NDBODE website and voice your opinions and concerns during the public comment period.

Together we have achieved so much over this past year. We have formed creative partnerships with supportive organizations such as the North Dakota Community Action Partnership. We successfully opened and shared our spring continuing education with other healthcare providers. Because of that connection and collaboration, Angie Stone was able to share her presentation with key nursing home individuals across a four state region; thus promoting the message that dental hygienists are, and should be, an essential component of the healthcare team. NDDHA will continue to support the transformation of our profession.

Another area of focus for the board is the upcoming transition of association leadership. At our September meeting we will present a slate of candidates who hope to lead the association during the next few years. The success of this association depends on the willingness of volunteers to step up and get involved. Everyone has something of value to contribute. The difference is in who is willing to share their skills, ideas and expertise to help us grow and improve. If this sounds like something you would like to do, please contact me, our immediate past president or another BOT member.

And lastly, I would like to remind you that whether or not you are currently a member of NDDHA, you are a member of the dental hygiene profession. If you had a membership in the past and let it lapse or maybe you have not tried a membership yet, the future of dental hygiene is dependent on a strong association which needs the support of its members. The previous successes, as well as future ventures that NDDHA will pursue, are a benefit of membership. Joining is easy and assures we have a voice, we are valued and we are better together!

Warm regards,

Judy Bernat
NDDHA President

President's Message ::: DHI Summer 2016