TRIANNUAL MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2026
Reflecting on a year of service, leadership, and impact across the National Dental Association.
In This Issue
- Inauguration & Scholarship Gala 2025
- A Look at NDA in Black History
- Architects of Change: Four Pillars
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Mission
The National Dental Association promotes oral health equity among people of color by harnessing the collective power of its members, advocating for the needs of and mentoring dental students of color, and raising the profile of the profession in our communities.
Goals
The goals of the National Dental Association are to:
Improve the delivery of oral health care in underserved communities and improve the educational opportunities of minorities underrepresented in the oral health field.
Our Objectives
The specific objectives of the NDA are to:
Establish the NDA as the vanguard of oral health in communities of color.
Perpetuate the tradition and upgrade the stature of African American dentists in service to the minority community.
Increase the number of minorities in dentistry in areas of private practice, academia, administration, research, health policy, media advocacy and the armed services.
Provide members with opportunities for continued education, collaborative research, leadership training, and business networking.
Inform health policy, interface with legislators, and influence legislation that affects minority consumers and providers.
Support members in transition from dental student to dental professionals to retirees.
Strengthen alliances with other health organizations, community groups, national coalitions, and corporations committed to the NDA ideals.
NDA Leadership
Meet the 2026 Leadership
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2026 Executive Committee
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Guiding the NDA's mission and strategic vision
2026 Board of Trustees
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Dedicated members serving districts nationwide
2026 Executive Committee
Dr. Wallace Bellamy
President
Dr. Dorita Newsome-Dobbins
President Elect
Dr. Reginald Salter
Board Chair
Dr. Lenise N. Yarber
Vice President
Dr. Bryant Jones
Secretary
Dr. Daniel Young
Assistant Secretary
Dr. Edward H. Chappelle, Jr.
Treasurer
Dr. Danté Brown
Assistant Treasurer
Dr. Joshua B. Tyson
Speaker of the House
Dr. John Nelson
Vice Speaker of the House
Dr. Cheryle Baptiste-Hill
Immediate Past President
Marcus Ware, JD
Executive Director
2026 Board of Trustees
Dr. Chanelle Small
District 1
Dr. Reginald Salter
District 3
Dr. Cedrick McDonald
District 3
Dr. LaTedra Collins
District 3
Dr. John T. Daniels IV
District 5
Dr. Joshua Golden
District 4
Dr. Dawud Muhaimin
District 6
Dr. DeAndra Turner
District 6
Dr. Perdita Fisher
District 5
Rev. Angela Bowens
NDAA
sDr. Denerick Simpson
SNDA
Dr. John Maupin, Jr.
NDAF
Not Pictured: Dr. Yasmina Wright (District 1) · Dr. Fallon Cunningham (District 2) · Dr. Alexis Payne (District 2) · Ms. Diane Lane Scott (NDHA) · Mrs. Phyllis Alves (ANDA)
Opening Remarks
Editor's Corner
Dr. Marissa Spruell, Editor · Dr. Sonya White, Co-Editor
Reflection, Gratitude & Legacy
As we present the Summer edition of The Flossline, we are reminded that this season invites both reflection and renewed energy for the year ahead. Across the National Dental Association, our members continue to demonstrate leadership, service, and an unwavering commitment to advancing oral health in our communities.
This issue highlights the many ways our organization remains active and engaged — updates from the National Office, moments of connection at the Hinman Dental Meeting, and upcoming opportunities like NDA on the Hill. We are also proud to feature the exciting relaunch of the Greater Metro New York Chapter and community outreach efforts nationwide.
"This edition also recognizes important observances, including Black History Month, Women's History Month, and National Children's Dental Health Month."
— Dr. Marissa Spruell & Dr. Sonya White
102nd President's Letter
Dr. Wallace J. Bellamy
Building on Legacy, Moving Forward
My name is Wallace J. Bellamy, and I am honored to serve as the 102nd President of the National Dental Association. I am a first-generation dentist with an aesthetic and general dental practice in Elk Grove, California. A chance appointment with a caring dentist during my high school years set my life's course — and today, I carry that inspiration forward through my service to the NDA.
The theme for this year's administration is Architects of Change — Honoring Our Legacy, Rebuilding with Purpose, Leading with Power. This moment demands intentional leadership to dismantle inequities in oral health and rebuild systems that truly serve our communities.
"Please reach out to me throughout the year. I am committed to meeting and engaging with members and prospective members alike as we work together to create meaningful change."
— Wallace J. Bellamy, DMD
Dr. Reginald O. Salter
DDS, MBA, PhD, FICD, FACD
Boardroom Brief
It is both an honor and a profound responsibility to serve as Chairman of the Board of the National Dental Association. I invite you to join us July 16–19, 2026, in Richmond, Virginia, for the 113th National Dental Association Convention — four days of connection, clinical advancement, leadership development, and purpose-driven momentum toward oral health equity.
"We are not merely participants in dentistry; we are architects shaping its future. I encourage all members to become engaged through an NDA society near you."
Marcus Ware, JD
Executive Director, National Dental Association
Executive Insights
As we begin a new year, I want to share updates from the National Office and highlight the momentum building across the NDA. I recognize the leadership of President Dr. Wallace Bellamy, whose 100-Day Plan has energized the organization around key priorities. Our advocacy efforts remain central — the NDA will host Hill Day on May 7 in Washington, DC, bringing members together to elevate oral health in national policy discussions.
This summer, we gather for the 113th Annual NDA Convention in Richmond, Virginia, July 16–19, 2026. I encourage every member to stay engaged — through local societies, regional events, advocacy initiatives, and national programs. Help us retain, recruit, and reclaim members. The challenges ahead require a strong and united voice for our profession and the communities we serve.
Inauguration & Scholarship Gala
Celebrating the inauguration of the 102nd President of the National Dental Association
The National Dental Association celebrated the inauguration of Dr. Wallace J. Bellamy as the 102nd President during the 2025 Presidential Transition Weekend in Sacramento. The evening brought together leaders, members, families, and partners for an unforgettable gala that honored the passing of the torch and celebrated the NDA's commitment to advancing oral health equity.
The event included the Crest Bridges continuing education session, the NDA HealthNow® Community Dental Day at Saint Paul Church of Sacramento, and the Q4 Board of Trustees meeting — where leadership approved the 2026–2029 Strategic Plan.
"President Baptiste Hill takes a dance break with ED Marcus Ware and Dr. Natera Wilson — a joyful close to a transformative administration."
Member Societies
NDA Across the Chapters
Celebrating the impact and engagement of our chapters nationwide
Greater Metro New York
GMNY NDA relaunches with National President Dr. Bellamy in attendance
Read More →
Greater Bay Area Dental Society
Community health fair, student mixer, and mentorship across UCSF and UOP
Learn More →Wolverine Dental Society
DetroitRepresenting African American dentists in metro Detroit with CE courses, Brothers Brunch, Ladies High Tea, and an end-of-season riverboat gathering.
March CE: Dr. Edmond R. Hewlett on Management & Prevention of Dental Caries
April CE Day: University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry
wolverinedentalsociety.com
February Observance
A Look at NDA in Black History
Honoring the African American leaders who shaped dental education and our nation
The Deans of Our Dental — Black History
In celebration of Black History Month, the NDA recognizes African American Deans of Dental Schools, past and present, whose leadership helped shape the future of dental education.
Dr. Dwight McLeod — A.T. Still University
Dr. Kenneth Chance — Case Western Reserve
Dr. Dennis Mitchell — Columbia University
Dr. Paul Gates — Fairleigh Dickinson University
Dr. Andrea Jackson — Howard University
Dr. Jeanne C. Sinkford — Howard (1st African American woman dean)
Dr. Leo Rouse — Howard University
Dr. Russell Dixon — Howard University
Dr. Billy Ballard — Meharry Medical College
Dr. Cherae Farmer-Dixon — Meharry Medical College
Dr. Clifton O. Dummitt, Sr. — Meharry (Youngest dean)
Dr. Janet Southerland — Meharry Medical College
Dr. Willie Hill — Mississippi University
Dr. Carroll Ann Trotman — Ohio State University
Dr. Theodore D. Bolden — Rutgers University
Dr. Lonnie Norris — Tufts University
Dr. Michelle Robinson — University of Alabama
Dr. Elbert A. Powell — University of Connecticut
Dr. Keith A. Mays — University of Minnesota
Dr. Ronald Johnson — UT Health Science Center
* Thank you to the Minority Faculty Forum Committee for helping compile this list.
Honoring the Life & Legacy
Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr.
Rev. Jackson emerged during one of the most transformative periods in American history, working alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and later leading Operation Breadbasket, Operation PUSH, and the Rainbow Coalition. His presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988 expanded the national imagination around Black political leadership and elevated issues that demanded greater national attention.
"His life represents persistence, courage, and a deep commitment to serving others. His legacy invites us not only to remember the progress made, but also to remain committed to the work still ahead."
The Jackson Historical House in Alabama
As our nation prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, the story of NDA alumnus Dr. Sullivan Jackson is being remembered and retold. His home played a pivotal role in the Selma to Montgomery Marches leading to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Mrs. Jackson and Mrs. Coretta Scott King were childhood friends, and the Jacksons provided a safe haven for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the March 1965 marches.
In 2022, Jawana Jackson approached The Henry Ford Museum about acquiring and moving her family home to secure its place in history. The museum is currently restoring it along with 7,000 related artifacts — including Dr. King's chair and Dr. Jackson's dental instruments.
The Jackson Home opens to the public June 12.
NDA members are welcome to visit and support The Henry Ford's preservation campaign.
Celebrating Dr. Cherae Farmer-Dixon
First Black Woman Chair of ADEA Board of Directors in ADEA's 101-Year History
The NDA proudly recognizes Dr. Cherae Farmer-Dixon — Dean of Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry — for her historic achievement as the first Black woman to Chair the American Dental Education Association Board of Directors. A native of Indianola, Mississippi, she earned her DDS and MSPH from Meharry, an Executive MBA from Tennessee State University, and completed leadership training at Harvard and Boston University.
"Dr. Farmer-Dixon's accomplishment reflects the values our organization continues to champion: leadership, service, representation, and a commitment to excellence."
NDA Foundation — 2026
58 scholarships · $280,500 in direct support
Expanding opportunity through the NDAF–Colgate Scholarship & Fellowship Program and Crest–Oral-B BRIDGES Scholarships. Click to learn more.
Greater Metro New York Chapter Relaunch
The Greater Metro New York Chapter of the National Dental Association has been actively rebuilding and relaunching its presence in 2026. The chapter began the year with the GMNY NDA Relaunch Party, welcoming both longtime and prospective members, introducing its new executive board, and hosting National President Dr. Wallace Bellamy, President-Elect Dr. Dorita Newsome-Dobbins, and Executive Director Marcus Ware as honored guests.
In January, GMNY NDA partnered with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. for the MLK Day of Service, providing dental screenings and oral health education. In February, chapter president Dr. Emma J. Guzman presented a multidisciplinary Black History Month lecture titled Rooted in Excellence for the New York State Dental Association.
Upcoming Community Partnerships:
- Queens Chapter of The Links, Incorporated
- Flagston Family Center
- Black Men's Health initiatives
Greater Bay Area Dental Society
Members of the Greater Bay Area Dental Society (GBADS) came together in service at the Bay Area Health Ministry Health Fair at Parks Chapel AME Church on September 6, 2025. Dentists and dental auxiliaries assembled oral hygiene kits, connected with UCSF SNDA students and College of Alameda dental assisting students, and supported Alameda County community resources.
On February 6, 2026, GBADS hosted a professional student mixer at the office of NDA member Dr. Danny Marquis, bringing together SNDA students from UCSF and UOP for an evening of mentorship and networking. Co-sponsored by Viv Arches Dental Studio of Northern California.
National Dental Association Foundation
John E. Maupin, Jr., DDS, MBA
President, NDA Foundation
The NDA Foundation is the non-profit, charitable arm of the NDA. Incorporated in 1976 as a 501(c)3, the Foundation achieves its mission through support of educational and scientific research endeavors.
Academic Year 2026–2027 Highlights:
58 scholarships and fellowships totaling $280,500 in direct support
Dr. Jeanne C. Sinkford Audacity to Dream Scholar Award — $20,000
Dr. James E. Lassiter Audacity to Dream Leadership Award — $10,000
Third year of the Crest–Oral-B BRIDGES Scholarships
"Federal support for professional education continues to decline while tuition and living costs rise. Colgate's collaboration allows us to sustain and expand critical scholarship opportunities, ensuring that talented students can pursue their calling." — Dr. John E. Maupin, Jr.
NDA Hill Day
The NDA will host Hill Day on May 7 in Washington, DC — bringing members together to engage with policymakers and elevate the importance of oral health in national policy discussions. Members are invited to stand united on Capitol Hill to champion policies that advance oral health equity and protect the future of our profession.
Also: Congressional Black Caucus Weekend
NDA will strengthen its presence and ensure oral health is part of the broader health equity conversation.
$60,475.00 raised
Building the future of the National Dental Association — four pillars, one goal: a stronger NDA for the next generation of dental professionals. 61% of our $100,000 goal raised so far.
As of August 27, 2026
Architects of Change: Four Pillars
What your gift builds toward — the NDA's 2026–2029 Strategic Plan
$60,475.00 raised of our $100,000.00 goal (61%) — every gift moves the Association's four strategic pillars forward:
Membership Growth, Engagement & Value
Community Outreach & Engagement
Student & Pathways Support
Health Policy & Advocacy
Donate to Architects of Change → · As of August 27, 2026
NDA National Office
3517 16th Street NW, Washington, DC
The NDA National Office continues its mission at 3517 16th Street NW in Washington, D.C. — the longtime site of the NDA Foundation House. This strategic location strengthens our alignment with the Foundation and opens new doors for collaboration, advocacy, and community impact.
Phone: 202.885.9492
Toll-free: 877.329.7973
Email: info@ndaonline.org
Web: www.ndaonline.org
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