President's Message
Dr. Mark Felton
(This is based upon my message from the SWSO business meeting in New Orleans, so if you were there, my apologies for the rerun).
First of all, I want you to know how much of an honor you have bestowed upon me by electing me president of the Southwestern Society of Orthodontists. I have to say to Dr. Buzzy Leithead, you're going to be a tough act to follow! Buzzy and his organizing committee are to be applauded for the great meeting they put together in New Orleans! We all had fun!
As I presided over my first business meeting, I saw so many faces of individuals who have touched my life both professionally and personally. That has to be one of the most important reasons affecting my decision to go through the officer corps. Whenever I am at a SWSO meeting I can feel the tradition that makes this such a great organization. We may not agree on every issue, but we are intelligent enough to realize that we are a part of this organization for the greater good of our profession. In this day and age, it is even more important for us to work together to maintain the tradition of excellence our profession has enjoyed.
I would hazard to guess the most visible issue facing us at this time is the crisis in orthodontic education. We must remember none of us would be enjoying the lives we lead were it not for the foundation our education gave us. Recruiting and retaining quality orthodontic educators should be one of our main charges. I know our professional organizations can't solve the problem completely, but we can be messengers of the cause. I personally think that part of the problem comes from society's attitude that educators must essentially be missionaries and have a lifestyle to reflect it. That is just not going to happen these days!
I am proud of the AAO though, in taking the lead to address these problems not only for orthodontic education, but for all of dental education. The AAO has developed the Dental Specialties Group to take this issue to task. Additionally, the AAOF has been making inroads to support orthodontic research. I am also proud of what the SWSO is trying to do with programs developed to support orthodontic educators. What I ask of you is to please not be complacent when it comes to this issue. Whether you are communicating with university administrators or politicians, let them know what the issues are. And if you need a list of those issues, please let me know! I want you to keep something in mind. It was Oklahoma's favorite son, Will Rogers, who once said, "Even if you're on the right track, you'll still get run over if you just sit there." Something to ponder.
Additionally, I am asking you to get involved in your professional organizations. The key to the survival of any organization is a broad base of member involvement. Everyone doesn't have to become an officer, but if you are asked to serve in some capacity, think seriously before turning it down. In reference to that, I do want to thank the recent committee appointees I had the pleasure of contacting. I do applaud their willingness to help!
Planning of the 2004 SWSO Annual Session is already in high gear. We will be taking a trip down Route 66 in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. A meeting loaded with continuing education and fun awaits you and your staff.
During the past several years, many new destinations for entertainment and the arts have opened within walking distance of our headquarters hotel. So, start planning now to cruise into OKC October 21 to 24, 2004 and the Renaissance Hotel! More information will be heading your way.