The CDA Foundation’s board of directors plays a vital role in fulfilling its mission. The board leads ongoing efforts to support dental professionals, reduce barriers to care and improve Californians’ oral health. Get to know board member Dr. Robert E. Reed.
Dr. Reed graduated from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry in 1968 and continues to be a devoted fan of USC football. After graduation, instead of entering private practice, Reed entered the U.S. Army. A veteran of the Vietnam conflict, he was an Army dentist until 1971.
Following his military service, Reed returned home to California and established his practice in Bakersfield. He was beloved by patients and staff alike, working tirelessly within a diverse community until his retirement in 2017.
During his career, Reed served as a board member and president of Kern County Dental Society, then as a CDA board member. One of Reed’s most memorable moments in dental leadership echoes current oral health issues. “I worked years ago to increase the number of water districts in California that added fluoride to their water supply,” he recalls.
Reed’s enthusiasm for dentistry and oral health promotion hasn’t waned since his retirement. “My passion is dentistry, which is why I continue to serve on the CDA Foundation board,” he says. He was introduced to the Foundation during his time as a CDA board member and embraced its mission. “The Foundation sets goals and establishes strategies to achieve those goals,” Reed explains. “Working on those strategies is something I enjoy.”
When asked to share what he would like his peers to know about improving access to care, Reed responded enthusiastically, “To facilitate change, you must get involved!”