WOMEN IN THE PDA LEADERSHIP
Full Steam Ahead
This progress should be recognized and celebrated because there are advantages to having more women dentists serving in leadership positions . Gender balance in organizational structure is essential for :
Addressing the needs of all members Encouraging collaboration and diverse thinking
Reassuring members that they are represented and they have a voice
Enabling individuals to share their unique perspective and voice their opinions
One recent program that helps to maintain this positive momentum is PDA ’ s Leadership Academy , established in 2021 . The academy ’ s inaugural class of enrollees was 63 % female and the current class of enrollees for 2023-24 is 50 % female .
The Leadership Academy is a customized program that provides valuable leadership and interpersonal skills to enrollees . A few of the objectives of the Leadership Academy include :
Developing communications skills
Learning more about your leadership style related strengths and weaknesses and how to use your skills to become a more effective leader .
Building long-term relationships with current leaders .
Other ways PDA has been successful with recruiting women volunteers is by offering micro-volunteer opportunities and the implementation of virtual meetings for committees , task forces and advisory groups . The virtual meeting option offers members a more efficient , less time-consuming option to volunteer because you no longer have to take time out of your office or away from your family to travel to attend an in-person meeting .
16 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2023 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL