#United States #Chicago #Learning Development #Aspen Dental #TAG U

Recognition for Learning and Development at TAG

The Aspen Group, commonly referred to as TAG, has recently been honored at the 2026 OnCon Icon Awards as one of the Top 10 Learning and Development Teams. This recognition is a testament to TAG's commitment to fostering the growth of its workforce and its broader mission to eliminate barriers in healthcare delivery.

The OnCon Icon Awards are unique in that the winners are determined by public vote, reflecting the value and respect TAG's approach to employee development holds among its peers in the industry. According to Katie Stangel, TAG's Vice President of Learning and Development, the company believes that the success of healthcare delivery begins with the investment in its personnel. "When our team members are provided with the necessary tools and support to grow, the benefits extend to our patients," said Stangel.

At the heart of TAG's dedication to professional development is The Aspen Group University (TAG U). In 2025 alone, TAG U offered an impressive 97 continuing education (CE) courses, with 4,721 individuals, including 1,475 dentists, participating in these educational opportunities. The initiative resulted in over 47,700 continuing education units (CEUs) being awarded to enhance the skills and confidence of healthcare providers.

Programs at TAG U include comprehensive onboarding, clinical development sessions, leadership coaching, and hands-on educational experiences. These offerings not only empower team members but also ensure that clinical teams can provide consistent and high-quality care across TAG’s extensive network.

Dr. Whitney White, a practice owner with Aspen Dental in Las Vegas, noted, "From the moment I joined the Aspen Dental network, TAG U supported me on my journey to becoming a practice owner. Now, participating in the mentorship program allows me to give back and help my colleagues find their confidence in delivering patient care."

TAG also extends its learning initiatives to encompass community outreach, evidenced by the TAG Oral Care Center for Excellence (OCC). This facility not only trains clinicians in advanced techniques but also offers free oral care to underserved community members. This initiative is part of TAG's broader five-year, $100 million commitment to increase healthcare accessibility for these populations. Other aspects of this commitment include community partnerships and local office initiatives, exemplified by events like the Aspen Dental’s Day of Service, which occurs on November 7th.

Breaking down barriers to care is integral to TAG's philosophy and is deeply connected to the extensive support provided to those involved in patient delivery. By investing in its Learning and Development programs, TAG fosters a more capable and confident team that is better equipped to meet the diverse needs of patients as they evolve.

About The Aspen Group (TAG)

Founded with the vision of delivering enhanced health care to a broader population, The Aspen Group (TAG) is based in Chicago. It operates over 1,400 locations across 46 states under several consumer healthcare brands, including Aspen Dental®, ClearChoice Dental Implant Center®, WellNow Urgent Care®, Chapter Aesthetic Studio℠, and Lovet Pet Health Care ℠. TAG prioritizes the development of its team members through TAG U, which facilitates clinical training and career growth opportunities within its extensive network. For further insights into TAG's initiatives, please visit teamtag.com.