California dentists who have distinguished themselves through a lifetime of outstanding, unselfish leadership and contributions in dental public health and public policy can be recognized through a new annual award launched April 1 by the CDA Foundation.
The 2026 Public Health Leadership Award, created in partnership with Henry Schein Cares, will recognize one California-licensed dentist or an individual who has completed an accredited dental public health residency program. Dentist nominees may be active or retired, but all nominees must have at least 15 years of experience in a public health dentistry setting in one of the following areas:
- Public service
- Dental health professional shortage area
- An academic setting
“Champions of oral health extend their impact far beyond the dental chair,” said CDA Foundation Board Chair Gabriela Garces. “They recognize that policies and programs often play a greater role in shaping the oral health of entire populations. Our new Public Health Leadership Award will acknowledge those individuals who help the profession respond more fully to peoples’ oral health needs at the local, state or national level or internationally through public policy advocacy.”
Who is eligible and who can nominate?
The Foundation will look for nominees who exemplify humanitarian ideals and attributes. For example, nominees should contribute significantly to improving the quality of life and oral health of individuals they serve; establish a legacy of ongoing value and benefit to others; and understand the impact that illness has on the physical, emotional, social and spiritual lives of patients and their families and respond with appropriate creative interventions.
Nominators must be either a CDA member or an executive director for a local dental society. The award nomination guidelines provide the full eligibility and selection criteria and required nomination materials.
Online nominations open April 1-May 31
Submit a nomination for the Foundation’s Public Health Leadership Award by May 31.
The Foundation is also accepting applications or nominations for the following:
- Arthur A. Dugoni Faculty Award (through April 17—deadline extended)
- Dr. Gale Kloeffler Award (April 1-May 31)
- Humanitarian Award (April 1-May 31)
- Webb Family Grant (April 1-May 31)
- Dental School Wellness Grant (Also launched in 2026, will accept applications until all funds are distributed)
The CDA Foundation is the nonprofit arm of the California Dental Association. Learn more about how the organization’s grants and awards support the dental profession’s efforts to meet community needs. Or, sign up to receive Foundation updates on events, ways to get involved and more.