Oregon Academy of General Dentistry – Who We Are

Oregon AGD was established over 40 years ago as a constituent of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) by a group of dentists seeking opportunities for continuing education.

Early members recognized the need for and value of providing dentists the means to expand their knowledge of oral health to better serve patients, and Oregon AGD claims a rich history of educational leadership in the state.

Over the years, we have grown in membership and been nationally recognized for our outstanding services to the dental health community. Among awards received, Oregon AGD is pleased to note:

AGD 2000 Membership Award
AGD 2000 Market Share Award
AGD 2002 Honorable Mention: 2002 Constituent of the Year Competition

Oregon AGD is made up of over 900 members from throughout Oregon who pursue ongoing education through a variety of quality forums – with many working towards the achievement of AGD's distinguished Fellowship (FAGD), Mastership (MAGD) and Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition (LLSR) Awards.

The 2011-12 Oregon AGD Board – Working to Meet Members Needs

Oregon AGD is led by a dedicated group of fifteen volunteer board members:

President Aaron Tinkle, DMD	President-Elect/Editor Todd Gifford, DMD
Vice-President/Legislative Chair Frances Sunseri, DMD, MAGD	Immediate Past President Scott Hansen DMD, FAGD
Secretary/Treasurer Kimberly R. Wright, DMD, MAGD	Public Information Chair Douglas Matz, DMD, MAGD
Continuing Education Co-Chair Steven Little, DMD	Continuing Education Co-Chair Michael D. Cary, DMD
Membership Chair Ryan Voge, DMD	Board Member Kevin Johnson, DMD
Board Member Kasra Rafia, DDS, FAGD	Board Member Gabe Bizeau, DMD
Board Member Todd Beck, DMD	Executive Director Jessica Smith
OHSU Student Board Member Kendra Flann	Student Board Member Kyle Malloy
Executive Assistant Teresa Haynes

Messages from…

Our Oregon AGD Board President

Aaron Tinkle DMD It's an exciting time to be the president of the Oregon Academy of General Dentistry. In the past two years our leadership has provided world-class CE opportunities to local Oregon dentists. In response, our membership has had phenomenal attendance at our courses.

We want to continue this strong trend. This year, we are offering 15 study clubs and 4 lectures, ranging in speakers on everything from dentures to sleep apnea. In October, we offered a lecture course at our annual meeting at no charge to Oregon AGD members. Due to it selling out, we will continue to offer this member benefit at next year's annual meeting.

Every OAGD member should be confident that they can improve their skills and practices through our local courses. Our members should also know that their feedback and course suggestions are always welcome. We rely on you to tell us what you want to learn that interests you and would benefit your dental practice. OAGD welcomes anyone who would like to attend a board meeting or volunteer on a committee. I started out this way and I was surprised at how fulfilling it was to be able to bring great education opportunities to Oregon.

Take a look at our courses and I am sure you will find something that can bring you and your practice to the next level.

Aaron Tinkle DMD

Our Executive Director

Jessica Smith Executive Director, OGD I have the privilege of being the second Executive Director for the Oregon Academy of General Dentistry. We have had a rich history under the 40 year leadership with Bernie Taylor and I look forward to pursuing an equally long career with the Oregon AGD.

I started my employment in May 2010 where I learned the core principles for the AGD are Education, Advocacy and Membership. I was pleased to discover that the Oregon AGD emulates these qualities on your local level.

Education: It's my responsibility to help create the space for you to continue your dental education and network with other Oregonian dentists. Oregon AGD aims to provide a wide variety of topics, ranging from the latest trends to the staples for dental excellence. I invite you to browse our latest participation study clubs and local lectures to find something that appeals to you. There is something for everyone at all levels of their career.

Advocacy: AGD Members are the voice for the general dentists. Oregon AGD works with National AGD and local community partners like ODA on issues that directly affect you and your dental practice. Oregon AGD has contributed national leaders to the AGD executive committee, most recently Dr. Bruce Burton as a past President and Dr. Carl Vorhies as a past Treasurer. Every year, Oregon AGD sends five representatives to the National Annual Meeting to speak out on issues that affect general dentists.

Membership: Oregon AGD should be proud of their accomplishments. Oregon is one of the largest constituents within the AGD. On a national level, AGD represents approximately 25% of general dentists while Oregon AGD represents close to 50% of the general dentists with 900+ members. Oregonians value their continued dental education. Oregon AGD values the needs of our members. Please refer a friend to join Oregon AGD today!

Please don't hesitate to contact me at 503.228.6266 or by email at jessica@oragd.org to share your ideas for lecture topics, to get involved with ORAGD, to register for a study club or just to speak to your new Executive Director.

Sincerely,
Jessica Smith