.png)
Honoring Excellence in Dentistry & Service
Know someone making an impact in dentistry? Submit your nominations for the 113th National Convention Awards in Richmond, VA.
Learn about each award, its purpose, and nomination criteria for the 113th National Convention.
At the discretion of NDA leadership — recommended every 3 years
One of the Association's highest honors, recognizing an individual whose lifetime achievements have created a lasting, transformative impact on the NDA, the dental profession, or the communities we serve. This award celebrates a body of work — not a single accomplishment.
At the discretion of NDA leadership — recommended every 3 years
Honors a pioneering leader who has broken barriers, created new pathways, and driven bold innovation. Recognizes groundbreaking impact that is still unfolding.
Annual — Teaching, Research, and Administration/Service
The NDAF and Colgate Palmolive Faculty Recognition Awards honor minority dental faculty for excellence in teaching, research, or service.
WHS — Male/Female
Recognizes distinguished professional accomplishments, visionary leadership, measurable positive outcomes, and commitment to mentoring future leaders with high ethical standards.
WHS — Organizations, Male/Female Led
Honors organizations advancing health and wellness through community engagement, DEI workplace policies, sustainable philanthropy, and documented community impact.
WHS — Female
Recognizes women who have overcome significant personal or professional challenges with bravery, resilience, and advocacy — turning personal trials into community impact and serving as symbols of hope.
WHS — Male/Female
Honors sustained community service leadership focused on healthcare access, health literacy, education, and service to underserved populations with measurable, tangible improvements.
WHS — Female
Celebrates barrier-breaking achievement, forward-thinking innovation, industry transformation, advancement of representation, and role model impact that inspires emerging leaders.
Annual
Recognizes extraordinary leadership and service advancing social justice, health equity, and systemic change. Requires 5+ years of commitment, policy engagement, community outreach, and mentorship aligned with NDA values.
Annual
Honors an individual who leads boldly at the forefront of social change — using their voice, platform, and influence to champion justice, inspire action, and mobilize communities through servant leadership.
Introducing award categories recognizing the next generation of NDA leaders.
Celebrating the Next Generation of Impact, Service, and Leadership. Annually recognizes 7–10 early-career NDA members presented during Opening Session/Plenary.
Eligibility: ≤10 years practice, active NDA membership, ≥2 years post-DDS/DMD.
Honors the transition from SNDA to NDA leadership — recognizing members who have carried their student commitment into professional service.
Celebrating the outstanding individuals honored at the 112th NDA National Convention in Kansas City, Missouri
Help us recognize the individuals making an impact in oral health equity across our communities.