The University of Louisville student chapter of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) was awarded GOLD status at the organization’s Annual Session & Exhibition in Philadelphia March 19-22, 2022. UofL was one of only five chapters in the nation to receive this honor, which is the highest designation granted to dental school chapters.

This achievement is based on the chapter’s ability to demonstrate leadership, effective and enlightening experiences for the student body, and perseverance in the midst of the ongoing pandemic.

The ULSD ADEA chapter hosts a wide range of events such as Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE) information sessions, a “Why I Teach” panel discussion, “Wax n’ Relax” and “Drill n’ Chill.” They also introduced new experiences this year, such as a sponsored Trivia Night, monthly ADEA Advocacy emails and the introduction of a new Diversity Council.

Alec McDonald, President of the UofL ADEA chapter, says involvement in the organization allows dental students to make a difference in areas that matter to them. “We offer so many unique council positions, all with their designated mission. Our Councils include the Outreach Council, Academic Enrichment Council, Fundraising Council, Communications Council and the newly introduce Diversity Council.”

McDonald says the organization is also a good way to build a support system during dental school. “Having a team surrounding you that's willing to create awesome experiences for yourself and others will help keep you sane, creative, driven and most importantly, supported. We meet regularly and always have a blast together.”

During the UofL ADEA chapter’s “Drill and Chill” events, first-year dental students get hands-on help from chapter members to prepare for practical exams.		The UofL ADEA chapter held several fundraisers over the past year. One of the most popular was sales of lapel pins celebrating diversity and inclusion.

 ADEA is one of many active student organizations at the school. Other Registered Student Organizations at ULSD include:

• Louisville American Student Dental Association (LASDA) – UofL’s chapter of the American Student Dental Association, a national student-run organization.  LASDA also serves as the governing body for ULSD students.
• Student National Dental Association (SNDA) – SNDA’s mission includes increasing the number of minorities in the field of dentistry.
• American Association for Women in Dentistry (AAWD) – AAWD’s mission is to be the recognized resource for connecting and enriching the lives of women dentists.
• Hispanic Student Dental Association (HSDA) – HSDA’s mission includes promoting and improving the oral health of Hispanics.

More about Registered Student Organizations at ULSD

March 28, 2022