ADHA Annual Session is fast approaching. This years’ big event will take place in Las Vegas, Nevada from June 23-29, 2010.  Attendance is expected to be largest ever – 18,000. Senator Ann Lynch has been invited to address the attendees during the legislative workshop on June 29, 2010. MnDHA is proud and very excited to have Senator Lynch discussing the process of bringing the Advance Dental Therapist (ADT) to fruition. MnDHA is in the “Spotlight” for spearheading the expansion of our profession with the ADT. Other states are following our lead to expand access to care through this new level of practice.

Star of the North occurred, at the end of April, at the River Center in St Paul, MN.

The number of attendees averaged about the same as previous years. Even with the registration fee requirement. MnDHA’s booth was an active place to stop by and visit over the course of the event.

Student Day was a great success. Over one hundred senior dental hygiene students attended from around the state. JoNel Bly presented information pertaining to the CRDTS examine. P&B Oral-B was kind enough to sponsor this day with a product presentation as well as lunch. Door prizes included two memberships to ADHA and multiple gas cards. I wish to thank Betsy Salic for coordinating this event. This will be a recurring event. Plan to attend next year, March 26, 2011, ADHA President, Caryn Solie, will be addressing the students and members. A leadership workshop will follow for all District VII members (MN, ND, SD, and WI). Mark your calendars!

Minnesota Dental Hygienists’ Association is comprised of women who are dedicated to serving the public by providing dental hygiene services and education. MnDHA wishes to preserve dental hygiene in its truest form while moving forward towards the future. This is accomplished in many ways: membership, education, public relations, legislation and fellowship. MnDHA membership is strong. As your President, I am thankful for your commitment to your professional organization. I would like to see our membership consistently grow. I ask each member to set a goal: Reach out to a fellow hygienist and introduce them to MnDHA. Encourage them to become involved in their professional association. Our continued growth is dependent on positive actions of our members. Let us grow!

May you all have a wonderful summer.

Molly Bigelow RDH, BS