NMDA Journal Fall 2018

4 New Mexico Dental Journal, Fall 2018 LEADERSHIP President’s Message I am deeply proud to be a member of our dental associa- tion. As dentists, we are responsible for the well-being of our patients, for the families we support and love, and for upholding the integrity of our profession. I hope you take a moment to review all the benefits that membership has to offer as you read through this journal. Moving forward this year, I would like to view our organization through the context of connec- tion, compassion, and courage as we challenge ourselves to do better and to be better. Connection Human nature drives us to connect with others. Although we do so constantly through our very intimate interactions with patients, connection on a grander scale with our colleagues brings an even greater value to our professional lives. The kinship I have formed with dentists in my local district and in our state association has given me an incredible sense of belonging. I appreciate the ability to have meetings where I can develop rapport with fellow colleagues, and it is invaluable as a general practitioner to develop face-to-face relationships with special- ists in my area. The social ties we build through our association are a foundation for our dental support system. Even more valuable than shared experiences are those that are different from the familiar. No matter our backgrounds or practice choices, we ultimately share frustrations and cope with struggles that are amazingly similar. The NMDA wants all dentists to be welcomed, valued and heard. We want to involve and empower voices from a diverse talent pool throughout the state. Diversity in opinions and experiences fosters innovation that improves outcomes for all our members. When we connect groups that are often separated—geographic regions across the state, solo with large group DSOs, general practitioners with specialists, and public health with private practice—we will find that while we have varied experiences, we have even more shared interests. The diversity in these experiences is the very reason why we must come together to progress forward. Inclusion can help drive meaningful connection, and we can all grow from the interactive exchange of ideas. Compassion It is no question that on some level, each one of us was drawn to our profession by a compassionate desire to help others. We give of ourselves to our patients in ways far beyond just fixing a broken tooth. As members of our communities, it is also our calling to help others to the greatest of our ability. It is a reality that to survive the stressors of our busy lives, we must be focused on family and career. But we also have a responsibility to the communities we serve, and giving back is something that the dentists in our state truly embrace. Through both the NMDA and the NM Dental Association Foun- dation, there are multiple ways for us to serve the heart of dentistry. Charitable events like Mission of Mercy and Give Kids a Smile are made possible by the enormous efforts of our dental volunteers throughout the state. Participation in Donated Dental Services gives us the opportunity to help indi- viduals receive comprehensive care at our own pace in our own office setting. Our dentists are passionate about devoting time and skills to those in need, and I encourage you all to continue your participation in these programs and events. Our capacity for benevolent outreach is not finite. Courage Let us have the courage to make our organization even greater. In doing so, we will always show appreciation for those who have delivered us this far and for the contributions of all our members. I hope we look through a lens of possibility as we confront challenges ahead. We must champion each other and remember that we should be encouraging all our fellow professionals—a bigger slice of pie for your neighbor does not mean a smaller slice of success for you. Opportunity is endless if we elevate our perspective and work together. Collaboration occurs when we discover the commonalities between us and cultivate a culture of sincerity and transparency. As you consider incorporating these principles, please know that we are here to assist and strengthen you. I sincerely thank all our members for your continued support, and we will continue to advocate on your behalf. For our non-members, consider having the courage to give us a second look as we hope to connect and compassionately serve our communities together. Respectfully Yours, Jennifer Thompson, DDS NMDA President 2018–2019 mobile 919-475-1560 | office 505-327-6233 jenniferthompsondds@hotmail.com Jennifer Thompson, DDS