AOEA Annual News
March 2026
The Advanced Operative Educators Alliance (AOEA) had a strong and visible presence at the 54th Annual Meeting of the Academy of Operative Dentistry (AOD), held in Chicago from February 18–20, 2026.
Advancing National Accreditation Standards
Program Directors from Advanced Operative and Restorative Programs across the country met on Wednesday afternoon to continue advancing national efforts related to accreditation standards through the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
AOEA remains at the forefront of developing the proposed Accreditation Standards for Advanced Dental Education Programs in Operative Dentistry, Cariology, and Biomaterials. These standards have now been approved by CODA for public review and comment, with final consideration anticipated at CODA’s Summer 2026 meeting.
The Alliance held its annual meeting in Chicago on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in conjunction with the AOD Annual Meeting. During the session, Program Directors actively advanced preparations for the upcoming self-study process under the guidance and leadership of Drs. Jan Mitchell and Gordon Jones.
Resident Engagement and Networking
In collaboration with the AOD Executive Council and the Founders Fund, AOEA and Program Directors welcomed residents to the AOD Annual Meeting. This special networking event provided residents with the opportunity to connect with peers from across the country, interact with members of the Academy’s Board, and engage with Founders Fund representatives.
AOEA organized the first-ever “Meet and Greet” event at the 2026 AOD Annual Meeting in Chicago. The event was well attended and served as a meaningful platform to strengthen collaboration, mentorship, and community among advanced operative and restorative programs nationwide.
AOEA organized the first Meet and Greet event at the 2026 Academy of Operative Dentistry Annual meeting in Chicago on March 18, 2026
Appreciation
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Academy of Operative Dentistry and the Founders Fund for their continued support of AOEA’s mission and initiatives.
AOEA
Advanced Operative Educators Alliance