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MDAA PRESIDENT’S ACCEPTANCE ADDRESS 2009

Officers, Members & Guests:

It is with honor that I accept the challenges of President of the MDAA.

Webster’s Dictionary tells us the word “green” is derived from the Greek meaning to grow. Synonyms include vigorous, new, and fresh. In today’s world, green is also a noun used to describe a political movement of concern and responsibility. It often refers to using an item or product over and over or the recycling of an item.

I am sure you are wondering where I am going with this, but green is what I think of when I contemplate the times ahead for the MDAA. The MDAA is 76 years young. I say young because we are about to begin a new chapter in our history. This chapter will clearly breathe new life into each of us. It offers us a renewed spirit and vitality. It gives us hope.

Looking out from the podium I see many familiar faces. Most of the officers sitting here today are past presidents. I served as president in 1988. Recycled? In a way, but I prefer to say committed, committed to a professional organization. The American Dental Assistants Association is the only professional organization to support and represent all dental assistants.

The registration of dental assistants is now law and soon the Board of Registration will begin implementing rules and regulations that we must abide by. This milestone has taken many twists and turns, but a fresh outlook coupled with a team effort made registration a reality.

As I look into the future, I envision an Association that will grow out of a grass-roots effort. I hope for more enthusiasm and interest from the dental assistant who once had a “job” but tomorrow will have recognition and professionalism. I see a cohesive group, with a collective objective: An objective that will elevate dental assistants to new heights and new responsibilities. I look forward to volunteers that will assume the duties of committee chairs and officers. Volunteers who will motivate others to serve.

My major goal for the coming year is to increase membership. I will be appointing a task force for this purpose. Reaching out to dental assistants is the responsibility of the MDAA. I ask that you join me in this task and make my goal a reality.

Nancy K. Leary, CDA, AS, CDPMA