Dr. Ken Webb
Happy Holidays!
This time of year means different things to each of us. For me it is a time to spend with family and friends, but also a time to reflect on the past year and to look forward. I would like to take a few moments to look at each.
Family. I’m blessed to have several. My wife, children and grandchildren, as well as our large extended family for starters. My “family” at the office. The wonderful Team I spend so much time with that work so hard to provide excellent experiences and outcomes for our patients, as well as supporting each other both in the office and out. My “family” of colleagues at NESO and the AAO. Incredibly talented and dedicated volunteers and employees who spend so much time supporting every one of us throughout our careers as orthodontists.
Friends. Those that are near and dear that I hope you have as well. There are also those that I have met through my AAO and NESO leadership journey. Wonderful people from all corners of North America and beyond who I would have otherwise never had the chance to know. A benefit of having become involved for sure!
Reflection. I will stick to business for this one. Incredible meetings and conferences that have enhanced my abilities as a clinician, manager and leader. The AAO Leadership Development Conference and Winter Conference 2023 on 3D Printing in Las Vegas. Participating in the Wharton/AAO MBO online program – amazing, with refreshed content for 2024! The Professional Advocacy Conference in Washington D.C: if you have not attended, please consider doing so – your elected legislators really do want to hear what is important to you! Annual Session in Chicago – “The World’s Greatest Celebration of Orthodontics”! NESO Annual Meeting 2023 in Montreal – a shout out to NESO Past President Lisa Howard and her Team for putting together a fantastic meeting in such a beautiful city! And of course – beginning my term representing NESO on the AAO Board of Trustees – a true honor.
Looking Forward. I do hope to see you at an AAO / NESO sponsored meeting this year! Winter Conference in San Antonio on the Art of Orthodontic Finishing (Jan 26-28). Professional Advocacy Day in Washington D.C. (Feb 27-28). The 2024 AAO Annual Session in New Orleans (May 3-6) and NESO Annual Meeting 2024 in Hartford, CT (Nov 8-9)! Please also consider becoming involved this year in AAO or NESO leadership, or in your State or Provincial Association. There are leadership development opportunities available, important positions in the recently created National Advocacy Network and many opportunities to participate on various councils and committees. You can find more information and apply on the NESO website at neso.org/about-neso/pathway-to-leadership/ or reach out to NESO’s Executive Director, Kristin Dunn (kdunn@neso.org) for more information.
In closing, I would like to wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season, a prosperous 2024, and to thank you all for what you do to make our Specialty the best there is!
Warmest Regards,
Ken Webb