Janine Burkhardt , DMD
Women in Dentistry
Janine Burkhardt , DMD
What does leadership in organized dentistry mean to you ?
Leading in organized dentistry is helping to shape the future of our profession . This is done in two main ways : advocating for our needs as dentists in a collective voice and also helping others in our profession . I would not be where I am in my career today without mentors who helped me along the way , so I am happy to be sought out as a resource when others need assistance .
• 2015 Graduate from Temple University School of Dental Medicine
• President of the Philadelphia County Dental Society
• Dental Director , Project Home
• 2023 PDA 10 Under 10 Award
Do you have any advice to new dentists who are interested in becoming a leader in organized dentistry ?
New dentists interested in becoming leaders in organized dentistry should not be deterred by their age or experience . They should seek out opportunities to be active in organized dentistry , whether by first joining in events or by stepping up to work on a committee . Their commitment and hard work will be noticed and appreciated , and leadership roles will naturally open up . It ’ s important to note that there are also many involved in organized dentistry that are leaders , even if not officially by title or position .
What inspired you to become a leader within organized dentistry ?
I was inspired by my mentors . I ’ ve seen that the more that you give , the more that you get out of organized dentistry . I ’ ve also enjoyed having a larger network of peers for support , through good times and bad .
What does leadership mean to you ?
I think James Kouzes and Barry Posner describe it best in their book “ The Leadership Challenge .” Leadership is both a relationship and a skill . Since it is a skill , it is something that can be learned , practiced and mastered if you ’ re willing to put in the effort . They explain that the 5 principles that help to make a great leader include :
1 . Setting an example for the behaviors you expect 2 . Being inspirational and inspiring a shared vision for your team
3 . Challenging the status quo , being willing to meet adversity head on and taking advantage of opportunities to change and grow
4 . Empowering others to act , as hard work can ’ t be done alone 5 . Leading with the heart and caring for your team and mission
I would highly recommend the book to anyone looking to improve their leadership skills !
What makes it worth your time to be involved in organized dentistry ?
The sense of community makes participating in organized dentistry worthwhile . I have found mentors , formed new friendships , and even found an awesome dentist to join my health center practice .
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2023 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL 33