The WSDA Leadership Institute is a program designed to foster new leadership in organized dentistry by getting participants involved in a variety of WSDA activities and meetings. The program provides an opportunity for WSDA members, in small cohorts of five to seven participants, to gain a better understanding of organized dentistry at the state level and to build relationships with current WSDA leaders. Participants are paired with WSDA Board of Directors or Past President mentors who shepherd them through several activities tailored to developing emerging leaders from within our membership.  

Participants should plan to attend the following events. All program costs are paid by WSDA, including airfare, hotels, meals, and transportation. 

• Past Presidents Roundtable & Association Orientation (Sept. 22, 2022 in Bellevue) 
• House of Delegates (Sept. 22-24, 2022 in Bellevue) 
• Committee Meeting(s) of Participant’s Choice (Multiple Dates in Seattle) 
• Pacific Northwest Dental Conference (Nov. 10-12, 2022 in Seattle)
• Dental Action Day (Evening of Jan. 26-Jan. 27, 2023 in Olympia)
• Board of Directors Meeting (March 10, 2023 in Seattle) 

Apply online by June 8!

Apply Here

Here’s what current and past participants say about their experiences in the Leadership Institute:

“I had a wonderful experience with my mentor and all other members and participants. It helped to get more understanding in organized dentistry and I will apply all the knowledge by serving on the Executive Council at SKCDS for the next few years. I’m spreading the word about this program among my friends.”

— Dr. Elena Andronova, 2021 Leadership Institute Participant

“As a WSDA Leadership Institute participant, first as a ‘class member’ and then as a mentor, I found the experience(s) to be enlightening and encouraging. My initial foray, attending WSDA Board and committee meetings, provided a ‘behind the scenes’ look at the careful/diligent decisions and work/commitment involved with being active in this form of organized dentistry. Positive attitudes and encouragement from Board members and staff allowed me to envision the role(s) within our Association in which my interests and skills would coincide with our work to ensure optimal oral health care delivery throughout our state. Subsequently, as a Leadership Institute mentor/WSDA Board member, I’ve had the opportunity to meet many enthusiastic dentists/volunteers, newer to organized dentistry, that will carry on the work of the WSDA. Establishing collegial connections, at any stage of practice, to enhance awareness and understanding of developing challenges and trends in the practice of dentistry, is an important skill in organized dentistry. The WSDA Leadership Institute can be a great first step.”

— Dr. Joseph de Jesus, 2015 Leadership Institute Participant

“Participating in the WSDA Leadership Institute has been a profoundly meaningful experience for me. The Institute affords a unique opportunity for dentists to develop the skills necessary to thoughtfully and critically approach issues that affect our profession. The program structure allows us to explore our own interests as they relate to the Association’s priorities and effectively engage with a diverse set of stakeholders within and outside of dentistry. Most importantly, through this experience, I have learned how we all can serve as leaders and effect significant change, regardless of our specialty backgrounds or practice environments. I am grateful to have been a part of the Leadership Institute Class of 2021-2022 and hope to use the experiences and skills gained to benefit my patients, my colleagues, and our profession as a whole.”

—Dr. Harlyn Susarla, 2021 Leadership Institute Participant