The mission of the American College of Dentists is to advance excellence, ethics, professionalism, and leadership in oral healthcare.
Fellowship
ON THIS PAGE:
Nominations
Nomination and Selection of Fellows
The common characteristic shared by successful candidates for Fellowship is demonstrated leadership in some aspect of dentistry and/or public service. The selection process for Fellowship utilizes a well-established, confidential peer review system evaluating professional and community leadership positions, contributions, a pattern of professionalism, and credentials. Each fall new Fellows are inducted at the induction ceremony held during the Annual Meeting and Convocation of the College.
The Meaning of Fellowship
The conferring of Fellowship in the American College of Dentists may be a high-point in a career, but it is not an endpoint. While Fellowship symbolizes leadership and meritorious achievement, it also defines a standard for future endeavors. At a minimum it is expected that a Fellow will:
- Uphold and promote the principles and objectives of the College;
- Strive for personal and professional improvement;
- Continue to contribute to organized dentistry and the community;
- Participate in College events at Section, Regency, and national levels;
- Regularly nominate qualified dentists for Fellowship.
Opportunities
Webinars
Register for ACD’s Fall Leadership Webinar
Training
Read more about the ACD Sweet Spot Leader Program and apply (download flyer and link to apply)
Upcoming Events
Registration opening soon for 2027
January 19
7:30 p.m., Eastern
Leadership Lessons Webinar 1: Ethical Leadership in an AI and Social Media Driven World with Natalia Chalmers and Brett Kessler.
February 5-7
SHIFT/ACD 2.0 in Rockville SHIFT and SSL Alumni are encouraged to apply for this “train the trainer” experience. Registration will open in September.
February 5-7
SHIFT 2.0: Becoming an ACD Ambassador.
This workshop is for SHIFT and SSL alumni, and anyone interested in polishing their presentation skills to use on behalf of the College. Contact Suzan Pitman at suzan@acd.org for more information.
February 18
7:30 p.m., Eastern – Leadership Lessons Webinar 2: Communication Strategies for Ethical Leadership with Isabel Rambob
March 30-April 3
Spring Leadership Conference 2027, Annapolis, Maryland – The SLC is for all Section leaders and those who aspire to Section leadership. It is an opportunity to work with the ACD Board of Regents and guest experts on issues immediately relevant to the College and the profession. There is no registration fee for this conference, with most meals included. The participants are responsible for travel and hotel costs.
April 1-3
Spring Leadership Conference All Section Leaders, and those considering Section leadership, should plan to attend the 2027 Spring Leadership Conference in Annapolis, Maryland. The topic this year is Recruitment to Retention. Registration will open in September.
April 16-18
SHIFT/Midwest, Kansas City, World War I Museum – expand your personal leadership capacity with a small group of like-minded Fellows and faculty at this weekend workshop. Tuition and most meals are underwritten by the ACD Foundation, with the participants responsible for their travel and hotel costs.

