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Celebrating Excellence in Pediatric Dentistry: The 2025 AAPD Awards

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the foremost authority on children's oral health, is set to celebrate its annual awards during the AAPD 2025 Annual Meeting in Denver, scheduled from May 23 to May 25, 2025. This event not only honors the hard work of pediatric dentists but also aims to highlight their significant contributions towards ensuring the oral health of children across the globe.

This year’s awards will recognize several remarkable individuals who have demonstrated excellence in various aspects of pediatric dentistry. Here’s a look at some of the prestigious awards and their recipients:

Pediatric Dentist of the Year: Dr. Natalia Chalmers

This esteemed accolade is awarded to a pediatric dentist who has made notable contributions through clinical practice, academics, or policy development over the past year. Dr. Natalia Chalmers, the recipient for 2025, has been recognized for her extensive volunteer services and unwavering commitment to the dental profession.

Jerome B. Miller "For the Kids" Award: Dr. Brianna Muñoz

This award celebrates a promising clinician or researcher directing significant efforts towards improving children's oral health. Dr. Brianna Muñoz, the 2025 award winner, embodies the spirit of this award, perpetuating the legacy of the late Dr. Jerome B. Miller, who devoted years to philanthropy and advocacy in pediatric dentistry.

Merle C. Hunter Leadership Award: Dr. Sarat 'Bobby' Thikkurissy

Honoring exemplary service within the AAPD, this award will be presented to Dr. Sarat Thikkurissy for his outstanding volunteer leadership in the organization over the last year. This award acknowledges the dedicated efforts of individuals in shaping the future of pediatric dentistry.

Manuel M. Album Award: Dr. Martha Forero

The Manuel M. Album Award recognizes contributions to the oral health of children with special needs. This year's recipient, Dr. Martha Forero, has dedicated her career to enhancing the oral health services provided to these vulnerable populations, embodying Album’s spirit of compassion and service.

Dr. Lewis A. Kay Excellence in Education Award: Dr. Bina Katechia

This award honors those who have committed to excellence in educating pediatric dental residents. Dr. Bina Katechia stands out this year for modeling the commitment to quality education and robust leadership that Dr. Lewis A. Kay exemplified.

Suzi Seale Coll Evidence-Based Dentistry Service Award: Dr. Tim Wright

Recognizing significant contributions to evidence-based practices, this award will go to Dr. Tim Wright for his noteworthy work that has affected the dental profession on both national and international levels.

Paul P. Taylor Award: Dr. Margherita Fontana

This award is given to the lead author of the most prestigious journal article in Pediatric Dentistry from the previous year. Dr. Margherita Fontana’s research exemplifies the quality and relevance that the AAPD seeks to promote among its publishing affiliates.

Dr. Ann Page Griffin Humanitarian Award: Dr. Sahar M. Alrayyes

This award pays tribute to AAPD members who show exceptional dedication to enhancing oral health among underserved populations. Dr. Alrayyes will be recognized for her remarkable contributions in this area.

Dr. Beverly A. Largent Access to Care Innovator Award: Dr. Maria Rita Bernardo

Established to honor those making significant impacts in their communities, this award will recognize Dr. Bernardo for her contributions as a significant grantee of the AAPD Foundation.

Early Career Dentist