Candidates for Elected Positions

Dr. Lisa Egbert

As my term on the WSDA Board of Directors draws to a close, I am excited to announce my candidacy for the position of President-Elect.  My past experience includes serving as President of Seattle-King County Dental Society, one of the largest components of the ADA, and active involvement in several committees, work groups, and task forces at all levels of the tripartite.  These roles have prepared me well to lead our Association. 

I will advocate for dentists on the most important issues.  Low third-party reimbursement, a shortage of qualified auxiliaries, high student debt, and ever-increasing regulation continue to plague our profession. 
 
It takes creativity and tenacity to make substantial change.  Engaging Washington’s new insurance commissioner and remaining steadfast in legislative efforts is paramount to our success. 
 
My passion is to continually improve the membership experience, increasing benefits while keeping cost as low as possible.  This aligns perfectly with WSDA’s upcoming participation in a new membership pilot program, drastically reducing the cost of being a member by relying on other sources of revenue such as WSDA’s investments, Retro program, and newly launched insurance and compliance products.  Luckily, one of my strengths is financial planning and oversight which will be an asset as a huge shift is made in how we economically support and sustain our Association. 
 
Three years ago, I promised to be transparent, fiscally responsible, and above all, member-centric.  I have fulfilled that promise and renew my pledge to do so as WSDA’s President-Elect.

Current Positions

WSDA Board of Directors, 2021-present

Former Positions

President, Seattle-King County Dental Society, 2019-2020
Treasurer, Seattle-King County Dental Society, 2016-2018, 2022-2023 Delegate/Alternate Delegate to ADA House, 2022-present
Board Member, Seattle King County Dental Foundation 2018-2021
Budget & Finance Committee, Seattle King County Dental Society 2015-2019

Professional Affiliations

Education

B.S. Cell and Molecular Biology--University of Washington, 1989 

Other

Fundraising Co-Chair, Boy Scouts of America Troop 572, 2016-2019
Cascadia College Foundation Task Force 2019-2020 

Dr. Puneet Aulakh

I am honored to be running for a WSDA board position.

I owe much of my professional success to the mentorship and support I received from organized dentistry. As a student, AGD/ADA volunteers took the time to mentor me, sharing their knowledge and experiences. After graduating and opening my office, I turned to organized dentistry for courses tailored to the needs of a young practice owner, which significantly enhanced my skills and confidence. I am incredibly thankful for these opportunities and the generosity of our profession’s volunteers. Their efforts have profoundly impacted my career, and I am committed to giving back to the community that has given me so much.

I have held numerous leadership roles, including Regional Director for AGD, past-president of Washington AGD, and WDIA. These experiences have equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face as dental professionals.

As a WSDA board member, my primary focus will be on fostering collaboration, and enhancing member engagement. Including:

• Member Engagement and Support: Enhancing communication and organizing interactive events to ensure members feel connected and supported.
• Advocacy and Representation: Representing our interests at the state, national, and community levels, including political advocacy and interactions with insurance companies.
• Community and Collaboration: Promoting networking, mentorship, and collaboration among members.
• Minimizing Costs of Membership: Implementing innovative solutions to increase our resources and reduce membership dues.
  
  

Together, we can navigate the challenges ahead and shape a brighter future for dentistry in Washington State.

Thank you for considering my candidacy.

Current Positions

AGD - Regional Director (AK/ID/MT/OR/WA) since 2020
Washington AGD - board member (since 2009)

Former Positions

WDIA 2017-2024, past-president
AGD HOD Delegate/Alt-Delegate: 2009-2011, 2013-2015, 2017-2020
AGD Group Benefits Council: 2015-2021
WDIA Taskforce on Professional Liability Carriers: 2018
Washington AGD past-president 2015-2017 

Professional Affiliations

WSDA - Seattle-King
AGD - Washington AGD
Pierre Fauchard Academy
RV Tucker Study Club  

Education

2000 Univ of Washington - Bachelor of Science Molecular Cell Biology Undergrad
Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry 2011
Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry 2014
2005 University of Detroit-Mercy School of Dentistry

Dr. Patricia Benton 

The opportunity to work hard to advance and protect our remarkable profession is work worth doing, and that is the reason I’m seeking election to the Washington State Dental Association (WSDA) Board of Directors. Each dentist presents with their own capacity to serve and unique competencies. As a dentist truly committed to organized dentistry, and an employee of a dental service organization, I have both the drive to serve and the ability to reflect the perspective of a growing segment of our profession. With other major transformations on the horizon such as changes in dental education, insurance reforms, and AI, it’s important that every member participate at whatever level of engagement they can. All levels of dentist participation are important, no matter whether it’s choosing to maintain tripartite membership, attending local district meetings, or reaching out to a colleague who may need support. We are stronger together and it is organized dentistry which leverages our collective voice to achieve our collective goals. When dentists thrive, so do their patients. In fact, dentists’ participation in organized dentistry is one of the single most important variables which ensures that quality dental care is easily accessible to all. Organized dentistry achieves this goal by championing initiatives which reduce regulatory burdens, ensure a qualified and ready workforce, and promote oral health. I’m 100% committed to achieving our shared goals. It would be a privilege to serve you, and our patients, on the WSDA Board of Directors and I hope to earn your vote.

Current Positions

Treasurer, Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry, 1 year
Delegate, Seattle King County Dental Society, 1 year 

Former Positions

Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry, Representative, 2 years
Washington Society of Pediatric Dentistry, Immediate Past President, 1 year
Washington Society of Pediatric Dentistry, President, 1year
Washington Society of Pediatric Dentistry, Secretary, 1 year
Washington Society of Pediatric Dentistry, Treasurer, 1 year 

Professional Affiliations

ADA, WSDA, SKCDA
AAPD, WSPD, WSAPD
ABPD, COD-ABPD 

Education

Boston University, Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Certificate Advanced Graduate Studies, Pediatric Dentistry 2011
University of San Diego, Bachelor of Arts, 2002
Tufts University, School of Dental Medicine, Doctor of Dental Medicine 2008
Boston Medical Center, General Practice Residency 2009 

Other

Puget Sound Pediatric Dental Study Club, President, 1 year

Dr. Ryan Lemke

An interesting conversation is one in which you’re asking all the questions. But every dentist knows how much dead air you have to fill while you have your fingers in a patient’s mouth, and you’ve exhausted every story in your repertoire. When I’m not wearing wet gloves, talking about myself is the last thing I want to do.

We’re here to serve. The first thing you do when you meet a new patient is interview them. You investigate signs and symptoms. You inform the patient of their options. If there is an expertise, it is empowering the patient to own their health and choose what best works for them. For the doctor, there is no ego in this. You’re a conduit through which the best outcome has the opportunity to pass.

Organized dentistry has given me the chance to learn to do the same with groups of people. You listen to people argue and, if you’re lucky, the path forward opens itself to you. I don’t have the longest resume of all the applicants here. But I’ve been learning fast, and I’m hungry for more. I have enjoyed every minute that I’ve participated in WSDA so far. Every dentist I meet is excited, and committed, and smart. The staff I’ve met have been amazingly dedicated to the cause of organized dentistry. It’s an honor to work with people who care so much. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to listen to the dentists of Washington, and to serve you.

Current Positions

WSDA Dental Benefits Committee - 2 years
WSDA HOD Delegate SKCDS - 4 years  

SKCDS Budget and Finance 2 years

Education

DDS Columbia University 2014
GPR Denver Health 2015

Dr. Stephen Rupert

Involvement.  Participation.  Action.  Collaboration. Whichever word you use- it is what we need now more than ever in our profession.   Workforce and reimbursement challenges; access to care limitations; educational debt burden; changes in practice modality; waning membership.  It goes without saying that these issues require the unity of our association to be addressed thoughtfully both for our greater good & for those we serve. 

Over the past decade in practice I have concentrated my involvement in the local community, joining several foundations as a board member- for Harbor Regional Health and Grays Harbor College.  Additionally, I have been involved at the periphery of the WSDA as a component officer, an annual delegate, and a member of the task forces on  “Nominations” &  “Unstaffed Component Societies”.

Having recently completed the Leadership Institute- attending Dental Action Day as well as a Board of Directors Meeting- I was impressed to see the effort needed to enact change, let alone maintain our autonomy.  Each of these events made it clear that I desired to take my involvement to the next level by joining the Board of Directors.  I look forward to advocating for Dentistry and dental professionals across Washington State.

Current Positions

Grays Harbor College Foundation Board of Directors- Since 2017
Harbor Regional Health Foundation Board of Directors- Secretary- Since 2019
Grays Harbor YMCA Annual Campaign Team Captain- Since 2014
Grays Harbor Champion for the ABCD Program 

Former Positions

South Puget Sound 40 Under 40 Honoree for 2022 

Professional Affiliations

GHDDS- Component Society
Pierre Fauchard Academy
ACD Fellowship (to be inducted 10/2024)
Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity 

Education

The University of Washington- B.S. Biology- 2005
The University of Southern California- D.D.S.- 2011

Dr. Marshall Titus

Over two decades ago, I made Seattle my home, beginning my career in general dentistry with a group practice where I still proudly serve today.

Throughout my career, I’ve been deeply involved in organized dentistry, holding various leadership roles. I served two terms as a commissioner on the Dental Quality Assurance Commission (DQAC), completed a term as a commissioner for the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), and currently, I am an examiner with CDCA/WREB/CITA, where I’ve also held senior leadership positions. Over the last few years, I have worked with WSDA to help establish an affinity group for dental professionals of color that include dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and students. I believe I can offer perspective as a WSDA board member that will continue to foster inclusivity and growth within our profession.

Outside of dentistry, I am a dedicated recreational endurance runner and a certified snowboard instructor. I am passionate about bringing fresh perspectives and valuable insights to the WSDA, with the goal of growing and retaining our membership.

Thank you for considering me for your vote.

Current Positions

CDCA/WREB/CITA Dental/DH Examiner

Former Positions

CODA Commissioner
DQAC Commissioner 

Professional Affiliations

SKCDS
WSDA 

Education

Howard University DDS 1987
University San Francisco BS 1981 

Other

PSIA/AASI DEI Task Force

Dr. Crystal Vo

It is with great enthusiasm that I, Crystal Vo, hope for the continuation of my service on the Washington State Dental Association Board of Directors. My professional journey has encompassed diverse realms including private practice, corporate dentistry, and a commitment to public health over the past nine years.
 
Recently completing a one-year term on the Board, our primary focus remains WSDA's representation of dentists, fostering a more robust and sustainable association. As a public health dentist, my perspective offers invaluable insights in our strategic deliberations, ensuring inclusivity across various practice modalities.
 
To increase membership, we need to strengthen the association through diversity in work experience, governance, programs, and advocacy, while also keeping in mind the new dentist perspective.  Addressing pressing concerns such as workforce availability and dental benefits reform underscores our collective commitment to enhancing dentistry in Washington. Establishing a Hygiene Committee underscores our proactive approach to tackling workforce challenges.
 
I realize that maintaining choice and opportunity in dentistry requires dental benefits reform. WSDA presented some very good bills last session. Unfortunately, the political process is a marathon, not a sprint, so for this next session we need to expand our political footprint, make new friends, and mobilize our membership to make our voices heard.
 
I support the new membership model rolling out. It will help address the financial barrier to membership, especially for the new dentists—those graduating within the last 5 years, and owner dentists will have options to save even more.
 
In conclusion, my unwavering passion for dentistry, coupled with my collaborative spirit and leadership acumen, positions me as a valuable asset to the WSDA Board. I am profoundly grateful for the trust bestowed upon me and eagerly anticipate the opportunity to continue serving our esteemed association.

Current Positions

WSDA Board of Directors Member- 1 Year
WSDA Task Force on Recognition, 2 Year
WSDA Delegate, 3 Years 

Former Positions

WSDA Leadership Institute Member, 1 Year

Professional Affiliations

ADA
WSDA
Snohomish County Dental Society

Education

BA, Biology, Drew University, 2007
DDS, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, 2013

Other

Skagit Valley College, Head Women's Tennis Coach, 1 Year
Academy of General Dentistry, Member, 8 Years
Delta Sigma Delta, Social Chair, 2 Years
DDS4Kids, Volunteer, 2 Years
USTA, Team Captain, 7 Years 

Dr. Lisa Buttaro

There has never been a more critical and exciting time to be involved in leadership at all levels of the tripartite. I had the privilege of serving you at the ADA House of Delegates as an alternate delegate these last two years and this has fueled my passion for learning in this new classroom at the ADA.

My work as a past president of the PCDS, 10 years as a delegate of the WSDA HOD, and my current service on the WSDA BOD these last three years have provided me tremendous growth and experience. I have the skillset needed.

I own a busy 3 doctor private practice in Tacoma. I started in the dental field 37 years ago. Dentistry is an incredible profession but too many of our colleagues are struggling severely. Now is the time for the ADA to make huge changes to save our dentists and our patients.

Representing WA state in the District 11 Caucus has been a wow experience. The District 11 team is passionate, forward thinking and often turns heads at the national level.

Each level is absolutely invaluable and necessary. There has never been a better time at the ADA . Have you seen what Dr. Linda Edgar has been doing ??? The ADA is rerouting the battleship and I am excited for an opportunity to be a part of the changes.

I am committed to working together to navigate the seas of change, strengthen our voice at all tripartite levels and turn our practices back into a for-profit business and profession.

I want to be part of the solution to make the ADA relevant to all dentists in our state and in our nation. I ask for your vote to represent WA state as an ADA delegate.

Current Positions

WSDA Board of Directors , 2 years
Pierce County Dental Foundation Board, 5 years
WSDA House of Delegates, 12 years
ADA Alternate Delegate, 2 years
WSDA Leadership Institute, Mentor - 1st year

PCDS Board of Trustees and President, 10 years
US Army Dental Corps, Officer - 11 years
WSDA HOD, Reference Committee Chair - 1 year
WAGD MasterTrack, 5 years

Professional Affiliations

International College of Dentists
American College of Dentists
Omicron Kappa Upsilon
American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, Pierce County Dental Society
WAGD

Education

 Rutgers University, BS 1992
University of Maryland School of Dentistry, DDS 1996
US Army Dental Corps, AEGD 1 yr residency 1997
Academy General Dentistry, MAGD 2012

Other

Volunteer Dentist: SKC Clinic, MTI, Homeless Connect, Bates, Union Gospel Mission
NCAA Division I: scholarship athlete; coach

Dr. Christopher Delecki

Greetings! 

For the past three years I have served as a Delegate to the American Dental Association (ADA), House of Delegates (HOD).  Looking forward please consider the strengths I will bring to the position the next three years. 
 
Workforce: 
 
I have been involved in dental education at all levels of the dental team development.  As a faculty member at the University of Washington, School of Dentistry, I know the current issues facing young dentists.  I have also been involved in efforts to expand the dental workforce.  I understand the workings of the dental educational system. 
 
Knowledge: 
 
I’m a past member of the ADA’s Council for Advocacy on Access and Prevention (CAAP).  On the council, I experienced the inner workings of the ADA and built relationships with other members of our profession. 
 
Experience: 
 
As a member of CAAP and District 11, I have written, and successfully guided resolutions through the House.  Last year I was the Vice-Chair of the District 11 delegation.  This year I will serve as its Chair.  I bring leadership skills that will be used to guide our delegation. 
 
Mentoring: 
 
I have mentored residents, dental students and pre-doc candidates.  As a leader in the District 11, I have guided the younger delegates.  Through these activities, I have been able to position the ADA for continued success through future generations of dentists. 
 
In summary, I am confident that I will be continue to be a valued and contributing member to our profession and the ADA House of Delegates. 

Current Positions

WSDA Workforce Committee 3 years
Chair ADA's National Fluoridation Advisory Committee 2 years 

Former Positions

WSDA Board of Trustees and President  10 years
King County Board of Health 11 years
ADA's Council for Advocacy on Access and Prevention (CAAP)
Seattle Central College, Dental Assisting and Hygiene Advisory Committee 12 years 

Professional Affiliations

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
American College of Dentists (ACD)
Pierre Fauchard Academy (PFA)
National Network for Oral Health Access (NNOHA) 

Education

DDS,  University of Michigan, School of Dentistry, 1977
MBA, City University, 1984
MPH, University of Michigan, 1992 

Dr. Tofunmi Osundeko

Since graduating from Temple University dental school in 2014, I have witnessed significant changes in Seattle's dental field. As a past representative to the WSDA House of Delegates, I helped uphold standards for Dental Assistant training programs and supported WSDA leadership in their settlement with Delta Dental. I am committed to addressing ongoing issues such as insurance reimbursements, workforce development for hygienists and dental assistants, and the student debt burden. These concerns demand a unified, strong voice. Diversity in our industry is also a priority for me. As a practice owner and minority in this state, I use my platform to promote outreach to dentists from diverse backgrounds. My involvement extends to the Delta Dental Member Advisory Panel (MAP) as a liaison, where I provide insights to shape beneficial dental policies. Additionally, I actively mentor students interested in dental careers, guiding them through their educational and professional paths. My work on the WSDA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee underscores my commitment to promoting inclusivity within dentistry. Recently elected as the Treasurer for the Seattle King County Dental Society (SKCDS), I am excited to contribute to our organization's financial stewardship and strategic planning. Having served on the SKCDS Membership Committee for six years, I remain dedicated to organized dentistry. These roles allow me to advocate for advancements in dental care and education while collaborating with professionals committed to improving oral health. I would be proud to be your voice once again to the House of Delegates.

Current Positions

SKCDS Treasurer, beginning term
Delta MAP Liason, 1yr served
Nominations Committee 2yrs
SKCDS Membership Committee, 8yrs
DEI Committee 2 yrs 

Former Positions

WSDA Delegate, 4 years, 2 terms 

Education

AEGD, Wichita State, 2015 

Other

SKCDS Program Committee member, 5yrs