On Friday, February 7, the CDA Board of Directors met with the Board of Dental Society Representatives (BCR) for an important session. After introductions, Dr. Zerbe, Chairman of the BCR (from the Monterey Bay Dental Society), and Dr. Martinez, President of CDA, led the meeting. I was joined by our SCCDS Executive Director, Shadi Kanaan, in attending this critical gathering.
The primary focus of the meeting was to strengthen the role of our component representatives as key communication channels between the CDA Board and our component leaders and members. This vision aims to improve collaboration and ensure that concerns at the local level are effectively communicated and addressed. The BCR was established recently as a result of the CDA leadership reorganization, and the role and interactions of the BCR are still being defined; this meeting was focused on defining the role of the BCR.
A major highlight of the meeting was the recognition of the BCR’s successful efforts from the previous year, including the reestablishment of the Membership Committee and the revival of peer review within our organization. In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Xerxes was elected to serve as the BCR representative on the newly formed Membership Committee.
We also addressed some ongoing issues with the implementation of the “Fonteva” membership database program. During the onboarding of members and tracking of membership renewals, certain challenges have affected local components. CDA is aware of these issues and is actively working to resolve them.
The devastating fires in Southern California and their impact on dental practices and the personal lives of our colleagues were discussed. Dr. Sato, a BCR representative, has been leading efforts to support members affected by the fires. A heartfelt plea was made for society representatives to encourage their society members to contribute to the CDA Relief Fund, which provides much-needed assistance to impacted dentists.
Looking ahead, CDA Board members will be visiting all components to meet directly with leaders and members. While the date for our SCCDS liaison visit has not been set, it is expected to occur in September.
Additionally, on March 15, CDA will host a Leadership Conference in Southern California. All CDA leaders and members are welcome to attend, but registration is required. Although there are associated costs, this conference presents an invaluable opportunity for leadership development and networking with other CDA leaders. The conference will feature programs aimed at building leadership skills and fostering relationships across the dental community. Room rates are $214 + taxes (single) and $234 + taxes (double). For those interested, please contact your local dental society or CDA for further registration details.
The BCR will be meeting on May 9, August 22, and October 3. As your representative, I am an email or phone call away if you have concerns you wish to have expressed to CDA as a member dentist.
Robert Shorey, DDS
SCCDS Board of Components Representative
