Why I Became a Vanguard Member of the AAOF

By James E. Paschal Jr., DMD, MS, Eastman Dental College Class of 2004

I first became aware of the AAOF at the GORP meeting in August 2003. I was a new resident at the University of Rochester Eastman Dental Center and very impressed that a specialty would care enough about its future members to organize a meeting for residents only. This incredible sentiment for the future of our profession was reinforced when I learned about the AAOF and its mission to support orthodontic education and research.

Since I am also a member of another dental specialty and painfully aware of what the lack of funding and foresight can produce, I immediately committed to give to the AAOF through the Case for the Future Program. Upon reflection, I became convinced that my initial obligation was not representative of how important the AAOF's mission was to me. As a result, I decided to make a commitment at the Regent level.

At the time of this decision I did not feel that it was an unusual obligation. Donations at the Regent level or above can be spread out over 10 years. With the Case for the Future Program this obligation can be met in many U.S. markets with as few as five cases. Think about it, one case every other year! What I was not prepared for was learning that I was the first to become a Regent as a resident.

Why Make a Commitment Now?

I understand that most residents have a very significant debt load and are uncomfortable obligating money prior to establishing an income. However, I would challenge those residents that value the AAOF's mission and understand their future income potential to make a commitment now.

By making an obligation to the AAOF as a resident you will forever be recognized as a Vanguard member. This distinction sends a strong message to the orthodontic community; Vanguard members believe in supporting the future of orthodontics so passionately that we are willing to make a commitment despite the absence of an income.

The current educational landscape in orthodontics is changing. The income disparity between our orthodontic educators and private practitioners continues to increase, and it is becoming impossible for programs to attract the necessary faculty to cultivate the future of our profession. Because of this and other funding difficulties, many orthodontic programs are struggling to remain in existence. Commercial ventures from private corporations are taking advantage of these deficiencies and are forever altering the state of education and the professional practice of orthodontics. One key to minimizing these vulnerabilities is financial support.

As a resident, I truly appreciate the commitment it takes to educate a student. This commitment can no longer be supported by only those who wish to teach; it now has to be shared by everyone who has an interest in the future of our profession. If we do not share this responsibility amongst ourselves, others with a different view of our future will.

Take the Next Step

To learn more, give AAO Foundation at 800.424.2841 or aaof@aaortho.org.