Delegates
“ The Annual Session Committee worked hard to coordinate all the important activities for both the social and business aspects of the meeting ,” incoming president Dr . Dennis Charlton said . “ They did a great job !”
“ The meeting was impressive ,” Dr . Charlton added . “ Everything went as well as anyone could expect .”
Dr . William Spruill , who was instrumental in developing this format during his busy presidential term that concluded April 9 , said that the overwhelmingly positive response from delegates showed that “ it certainly was an idea whose time had come .”
“ I couldn ' t be more pleased with the results ,” Dr . Spruill said . “ Though it happened on my watch , the change was the result of collective efforts of the PDA Board of Trustees , guided by our CEO , to assess and evaluate all of our cost centers and implement change where improvements could be realized .”
“ The new format demonstrated that the House can make cognitive changes reflecting our commitment to more efficient use of our time and resources while affording plenty of opportunity for camaraderie , social interaction and appropriate recognition of our honorees ,” Dr . Spruill added .
Dr . Jeffrey Sameroff , PDA secretary said , “ The meeting was great ,” adding one suggestion , “ I think we should move the President ’ s banquet to Friday night if possible .”
That suggestion was echoed by several other attendees , but for the most part , delegates were effusive in praising the new format , and cited the reduction of down time , allowing them to spend more time with their families or back home working in their offices .
A few people expressed a desire for more social activities .
“ I believe that we are underestimating the importance of camaraderie ,” said Pennsylvania Dental Journal editor emeritus Dr . Richard Galeone . “ People go to meetings for many reasons , and social interaction is high on that list . I am afraid that over time the abbreviated social experience will lead to a lessened interest in attending the meeting .”
However , some attendees stated that the new format will have great appeal to younger members whom districts want to attract to their delegations , and is more suited to their idea of what a meeting should be .
Cost savings for the association was another positive factor cited by attendees .
One issue that attendees were fairly split on was whether an informational session should be included in the format . There
“ The Annual Session Committee worked hard to coordinate all the important activities for both the social and business
aspects of the meeting , ” incoming president Dr . Dennis Charlton said .
“ They did a great job ! ”
July / August 2011 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal
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