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About AOD
The Academy of Operative Dentistry was founded in 1972 by members of the Academy of Gold Foil Operators. They saw the need for an organization devoted to the operative dentist. The purpose of the Academy of Operative Dentistry was to promote excellence in operative dentistry by influencing the practice of the health professions in organized dentistry, health science education, and research. (read more)
President's Message
Dear Members and Guests,
It is with great honor and genuine excitement that I welcome you to the 54th Annual Meeting of the Academy of Operative Dentistry, recognized as one of the premier in-person dental meetings in the world. Having served on the Executive Council, and now serving as President, I do not take this privilege lightly.
As I see the names of the long list of past presidents, I am humbled. I feel like a small fish in a very big pond, surrounded by giants. Many of those giants are still with us here today; outstanding clinicians, accomplished educators, and pioneering researchers. I encourage you to take this opportunity to meet them, learn from them, and build meaningful professional connections.
The Academy of Operative Dentistry remains steadfast in its mission to promote excellence in clinical practice, education, and research. For more than five decades, the AOD has provided a platform for dental professionals to exchange knowledge, elevate standards, and contribute to the advancement of quality dentistry and patient care.
Our Academy maintains strong and meaningful relationships with several esteemed organizations, including the American Academy of Gold Foil Operators, the Academy of R.V. Tucker Study Clubs, the American Board of Operative Dentistry, and the Advanced Operative Educators Alliance (AOEA), a collaborative group representing all nine graduate programs in Operative Dentistry across North America.
My personal journey with the AOD began in 1993, when Dr. J. Martin Anderson invited me to attend the 22nd Annual Meeting in Chicago. I was eager, though unfamiliar with what lay ahead. Marty gave me simple instructions: “Don’t miss the plane, dress like a professional, wear a warm coat, and make a lot of friendships.” That first year, I met Dr. Richard Stevenson III and Dr. Mark Cruz, two colleagues who remain dear friends to this day. I haven’t missed a meeting since. At its heart, our Academy is about friendships, forming new ones, nurturing old ones, and growing together through shared learning.
We are proud to welcome a diverse and international audience. The Academy is celebrated not only for its academic excellence but also for its approachable, welcoming atmosphere, where mentorship and professional development thrive.
A core part of our mission is recognizing excellence in the field. Each year, the Academy presents two prestigious awards to dentists who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and impact in Operative Dentistry. the 2026 recipients:
- Hollenback Prize: Dr. Bart Van Meerbeek, DDS, PhD
- Award of Excellence: (The most coveted award) Dr. Timmothy J. Carlson, DDS, MSD
Congratulations to both, on this well-deserved recognition. We wish you continued success in your remarkable careers.
Among the many benefits of AOD membership is access to the Journal of Operative Dentistry, an esteemed, peer-reviewed publication known for its scientific rigor and global impact. We are deeply grateful to the dedicated editorial team and reviewers who devote countless hours to advancing the science and practice of our profession.
None of this would be possible without the tireless work of our Academy officers and planning team. I extend heartfelt thanks to:
- Dr. Ana Bedran-Russo, President Elect, for curating an outstanding Scientific Session
- Dr. Sandra Guzman Armstrong, Vice-President, for coordinating our dynamic Clinical Briefings
- Dr. Richard G. Stevenson III, truly the heartbeat of our Academy
- Dr. Yana Nedvetsky, our vigilant Treasurer
- Dr. Eric McRory, our dedicated Webmaster
- Dr. Taiseer Sulaiman, our (never sleeping) Research Committee Chair
- Dr. Tina Lopez and Tina Cody, for their exceptional contributions and service
- Dr. Alison Ozaki, Assistant Secretary, for meticulous recordkeeping
- Kevin Matis, for managing CE records with precision
To each of you: thank you for your commitment, expertise, and the countless hours you invest in making this meeting a success.
As we begin this year’s program, my sincere hope is that you find inspiration, knowledge, and camaraderie in every session and conversation. May this meeting deepen your passion for dentistry and strengthen our Academy through your continued involvement.
Thank you for being here and thank you for your commitment to lifelong learning.
Warm regards,
Thomas E. Cyr, DDS
President, Academy of Operative Dentistry