Dr. Michael Rennert
In 2001, I was invited by a friend to a NESO event that would include the leadership at that time. At the last minute, he was unable to attend, but I decided to go anyway.
When I arrived, the venue was packed, and I didn’t know a single person there. I noticed they were serving one of my favorite beers, so I wandered over to the bar. While I was in line, a gentleman approached me and warmly said, “I’m Mike, and I’m glad you are here.” His friendly greeting made me feel so welcome, and I was genuinely impressed by his kindness. I was struck by his sincere interest in me. It turned out that this kind stranger was the President of the AAO.
Dr. Michael Rennert passed away on May 28, 2025, after a long illness. He was 85 years old and had been married to his wonderful wife, Doreen, for 58 years. From Montreal, Mike was a strong advocate for maintaining a “small” family-oriented practice. He even wrote an article for the JCO titled “Small is Beautiful,” which outlined his beliefs on the subject.
Dr. Rennert entered orthodontic practice in Montreal soon after completing the orthodontic residency program at the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1965. He received his dental degree from McGill University in Montreal, where he later served on the orthodontic faculty for 28 years, including 18 years as Orthodontic Department Chair.
Active in organized orthodontics for most of his career, Dr. Rennert was president of the Northeastern Society of Orthodontists (NESO) (1982-83) and of the Quebec Association of Orthodontists. He was a delegate from NESO to the AAO House of Delegates for 12 years and served on the AAO Council on Insurance (now Council on Benefits). He joined the AAO Board of Trustees in 1991. He was the first (and only) Canadian President of the AAO, serving 2000-2001.
Mike Rennert was the one who tapped me on the shoulder and asked me to be involved with NESO. His welcoming that night in 2001 was the beginning of my long journey. He showed me that everyone was welcome in the NESO family. What a moment. What a memory. He set the standard.
John Callahan
Past President, AAO