2026 ODA LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE EMPOWERS OHIO DENTISTS WITH SKILLS, INSIGHTS AND NETWORKING
165 ODA member dentists attended the 2026 ODA Leadership Institute.
The 2026 ODA Leadership Institute provided attendees an opportunity to build their leadership skills while receiving updates on issues important to dentistry in Ohio and connecting with colleagues from across the state. 165 ODA members attended the event.
“I attended the ODA Leadership Institute in Columbus, Ohio, and had the chance to reconnect with many old friends and meet new colleagues who share a common purpose,” said Dr. Raj Kulkarni, an orthodontist in Springboro. “The highlight for me was attending my first leadership conference with my daughter, experiencing true intergenerational leadership as I introduced her to the professionals who lead our organization. Sharing the ODA Leadership Institute with my daughter reminded me that true intergenerational leadership is not just about preparing the next generation, but leading with them today and in the future as they lean on our experience.”
Leadership Institute took place March 13-14 in Columbus and featured keynote presentations, roundtable discussions, breakout sessions and opportunities for camaraderie and fellowship.
“I feel that attending Leadership Institute is one of the coolest member benefits since you can obtain CE credit in courses from fantastic speakers and network with many leaders in organized dentistry in Ohio, as well as distinguished guests from the ADA,” said Dr. David Danesh, a pediatric dentist in Columbus. “I highly recommend dentists at any stage of their career and involvement in organized dentistry attend.”
The event kicked off with a keynote presentation “Using Social Media to Recruit, Engage, and Retain Today’s Dental Team” presented by Kristi Simone, a dental marketing, strategy and sales expert who co-founded YeS! Creative Marketing. The presentation focused on how to strategically use social media to attract the right candidates, showcase authentic practice culture, and strengthen team loyalty long after the hire.
In the afternoon, attendees were able to choose two of the following breakout sessions:
“AI and the Future of Dental Practice Marketing: What You Need to Know Now,” presented by Simone.
“Ethical Dental Dilemmas: What Would You Do?” presented by Dr. Kelly Roth, speaker of the ODA House of Delegates and former chair of both the ADA Council on Ethics, Bylaws, and Judicial Affairs and the ODA Ethics Subcommittee.
“Update on Legal and Regulatory Issues for Ohio Dentists,” presented by Eric Richmond, ODA director of legal and legislative services.
Following the breakout sessions, attendees heard from Ohio Sen. Kristina Roegner, and the ODA lobbying team presented an “Update on Dental Legislation at the Ohio Statehouse.”
“ODA Today” Executive Editor Dr. Matt Messina hosted a discussion with Dr. Apoorva Ramaswamy, MD, entitled “The Laryngologist Perspective” to close out the Friday afternoon session.
Saturday featured a keynote presentation “The Pursuit of Excellence” presented by Ryan Hawk, a best-selling author, business advisor, popular podcaster, former college athlete, and sought-after public speaker. During this presentation, Hawk equipped attendees with the mindset, tools and clear next steps to raise their standards and lead with greater intention, both in the office and at home.
The day also included an “ADA Update” presented by ADA Seventh District Trustee Dr. Manish Chopra, an “ODA Town Hall” with the ODA Executive Committee and a presentation from ADA President-Elect Dr. Tom Paumier, “A Vision for the Future of Organized Dentistry.” Paumier gave a brief review of his election and discussed his vision for the ADA as he completes his term as ADA president-elect and prepares for his year as ADA president beginning in October.
“Every year I look forward to learning what is new in dentistry via the Town Hall and what regulations are currently required through Chris Moore and Eric Richmond’s presentation,” said Dr. George T. Williams, a general dentist in Canton. “Being educated in what is happening in dentistry from the current state of organized dentistry, to the political aspect, to the government regulations enables me to be a better dentist/owner/administrator/educator, which in turn allows me to be a better leader. Attending the ODA Leadership Institute allows me to share my knowledge that I gain. Where else can you attend a free meeting and receive great advice, knowledge, food and continuing education along with camaraderie?”
Leadership Institute is an exclusive opportunity designed to help ODA members enhance their leadership skills in their practice, at their jobs, for their community and for their profession. By developing leadership abilities and fostering stronger relationships, attendees can amplify their impact in all areas of their professional and personal lives. Leadership Institute is a free event that takes place each spring as a benefit of membership.
“The Leadership Institute is the grounds where the seeds of change are sown, grown and nurtured, helping us navigate the changing demands, challenges and opportunities facing our profession while engaging leaders across generations,” Kulkarni said.
ODA Leadership Institute was sponsored by Superior Dental Care. Survey raffle winners were Dr. Goerge T. Williams and Dr. Kathleen Petit.
