| Greetings from the President! I hope this message finds you well and that your year is off to a great start. On behalf of the WSAPD Board, I am pleased to share a few updates and highlights as we begin another exciting year together. It has been a productive and energizing start to 2026 for WSAPD. One of our highlights was a successful FQHC event held this past January. Drs. Aarika Anderson-Elter and Megan Miller provided engaging and informative lectures to the general dentists who support our community based clinics. Our CE committee has been working hard to source speakers for the upcoming year and we are looking forward to seeing you all at our 2026 continuing education events. As always, we are open to hearing your thoughts and feedback, please reach out to info@wsapd.org. Thank you all for your involvement and camaraderie as we kick off the new year. |
Greetings from the President! I hope this message finds you well and that your year is off to a great start. On behalf of the WSAPD Board, I am pleased to share a few updates and highlights as we begin another exciting year together. It has been a productive and energizing start to 2026 for WSAPD. One of our highlights was a successful FQHC event held this past January. Drs. Aarika Anderson-Elter and Megan Miller provided engaging and informative lectures to the general dentists who support our community based clinics. Our CE committee has been working hard to source speakers for the upcoming year and we are looking forward to seeing you all at our 2026 continuing education events. As always, we are open to hearing your thoughts and feedback, please reach out to info@wsapd.org. Thank you all for your involvement and camaraderie as we kick off the new year. |
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| Emily Pham, DMD WSAPD President 2025-2026 |
Emily Pham, DMD WSAPD President 2025-2026 |
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WSAPD is only as strong as the members willing to lead it. Every committee, every lecture, every advocacy effort — it runs on people who showed up. Whether you're a new grad or you know how to do a resin window SSC, your vantage point matters. If you've ever had a strong opinion about the direction of pediatric dentistry in Washington, that's exactly the qualification we're looking for. At the annual meeting, WSPD President Harlyn Susarla reminded us of the reward of "leaving the woodpile higher than you found it." The leaders before us built the foundation you practice on today. Join us. Help us leave the oral health of Washington's children and the WSAPD better than we found it. Below are ways that you can pitch in. WSPD Trustee A three-year term as a representative to the Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry Board of Trustees and a non-voting member of the WSAPD board will begin in June 2026. Committee Members We have open committee seats in a variety of roles and are seeking members committed to a one-year term. Members willing to lend their expertise and sound judgement to our district and chapter should complete the Leadership Interest Form below. Let us know how your particular set of skills can support WSAPD's mission. |
WSAPD is only as strong as the members willing to lead it. Every committee, every lecture, every advocacy effort — it runs on people who showed up. Whether you're a new grad or you know how to do a resin window SSC, your vantage point matters. If you've ever had a strong opinion about the direction of pediatric dentistry in Washington, that's exactly the qualification we're looking for. At the annual meeting, WSPD President Harlyn Susarla reminded us of the reward of "leaving the woodpile higher than you found it." The leaders before us built the foundation you practice on today. Join us. Help us leave the oral health of Washington's children and the WSAPD better than we found it. Below are ways that you can pitch in. WSPD Trustee A three-year term as a representative to the Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry Board of Trustees and a non-voting member of the WSAPD board will begin in June 2026. Committee Members We have open committee seats in a variety of roles and are seeking members committed to a one-year term. Members willing to lend their expertise and sound judgement to our district and chapter should complete the Leadership Interest Form below. Let us know how your particular set of skills can support WSAPD's mission. |
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| SAVE THE DATES Click the images below to learn more! |
SAVE THE DATES Click the images below to learn more! |
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Saturday 03.07.2026 Seattle Training Center |
Saturday 03.07.2026 Seattle Training Center |
| Saturday 04.04.2026 Tacoma Country Golf |
Saturday 04.04.2026 Tacoma Country Golf |
| Friday 05.08.2026 Mountaineers Seattle Center |
Friday 05.08.2026 Mountaineers Seattle Center |
| Saturday 10.03.2026 Cedarbrook Lodge Seattle |
Saturday 10.03.2026 Cedarbrook Lodge Seattle |
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| UW Alumni and WSAPD Member Reception May 23, 2026 in Las Vegas Caesar's Forum Convention - Silver Room Between 5:00-7:00pm |
UW Alumni and WSAPD Member Reception May 23, 2026 in Las Vegas Caesar's Forum Convention - Silver Room Between 5:00-7:00pm |
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The WSAPD Board hosted its first leadership retreat this past November. With the introduction of new leadership —including WSAPD's new treasurer/secrertary, Dr. Micah Bovencamp and Executive Assistant, Stacie Downing — the Board determined it was essential to take deliberate steps to reaffirm our mission, clarify our organizational purpose, and establish a focused strategic direction for the association. During the full-day retreat we reviewed the successes of the year and identified key areas for growth. WSAPD leadership outlined clear priorities for the year ahead, including onboarding our new Executive Assistant and supporting and empowering the CE Committee led by Dr. Aarika Anderson Elter and Cristina León-Piñeda. We also discussed maintaining high-quality continuing education events, day-to-day operations, and ensuring ongoing organizational compliance. We addressed finalizing WSAPD’s bylaws and using data from the membership survey to guide improvements in financial stewardship and in evaluating our nonprofit structure. Your feedback ensures that leadership decisions are aligned with your needs and the long-term goals of WSAPD. |
The WSAPD Board hosted its first leadership retreat this past November. With the introduction of new leadership —including WSAPD's new treasurer/secrertary, Dr. Micah Bovencamp and Executive Assistant, Stacie Downing — the Board determined it was essential to take deliberate steps to reaffirm our mission, clarify our organizational purpose, and establish a focused strategic direction for the association. During the full-day retreat we reviewed the successes of the year and identified key areas for growth. WSAPD leadership outlined clear priorities for the year ahead, including onboarding our new Executive Assistant and supporting and empowering the CE Committee led by Dr. Aarika Anderson Elter and Cristina León-Piñeda. We also discussed maintaining high-quality continuing education events, day-to-day operations, and ensuring ongoing organizational compliance. We addressed finalizing WSAPD’s bylaws and using data from the membership survey to guide improvements in financial stewardship and in evaluating our nonprofit structure. Your feedback ensures that leadership decisions are aligned with your needs and the long-term goals of WSAPD. |
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Results from Membership Survey |
Results from Membership Survey |
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The membership survey was designed to gather feedback to help WSAPD improve alignment with member goals and requests. Of the 255 WSAPD members, we received 27 responses. |
The membership survey was designed to gather feedback to help WSAPD improve alignment with member goals and requests. Of the 255 WSAPD members, we received 27 responses. |
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Continuing Education Members shared interest in learning more about Molar Incisor Hypomineralization and wanted to receive interdisciplinary education from other dental and pediatric medicine specialists. Overall, members were satisfied with CE quantity, credit hours, locations, and pricing. |
Continuing Education Members shared interest in learning more about Molar Incisor Hypomineralization and wanted to receive interdisciplinary education from other dental and pediatric medicine specialists. Overall, members were satisfied with CE quantity, credit hours, locations, and pricing. |
| | Advocacy Members were asked whether WSAPD should explore reclassification from a 501(c)(3) to a 501(c)(6) to expand advocacy and lobbying efforts. While this would require significant organizational restructuring, 65% of respondents supported exploring this option. The Board plans to conduct further research this summer to assess feasibility. |
Advocacy Members were asked whether WSAPD should explore reclassification from a 501(c)(3) to a 501(c)(6) to expand advocacy and lobbying efforts. While this would require significant organizational restructuring, 65% of respondents supported exploring this option. The Board plans to conduct further research this summer to assess feasibility. |
| | Communication Members requested more frequent communication, with a preference for quarterly newsletters. Currently, newsletters are sent in the winter, spring, and summer. In response, WSAPD plans to add an additional newsletter this year to better keep members informed. |
Communication Members requested more frequent communication, with a preference for quarterly newsletters. Currently, newsletters are sent in the winter, spring, and summer. In response, WSAPD plans to add an additional newsletter this year to better keep members informed. |
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The membership survey also gave opportunity for feedback regarading membership dues and operations. Regarding membership dues, we gave the options for: 1. Reduced/graduated dues for early career pediatric dentists 2. Reduced dues for full time pediatric dental faculty 3. Reduced dues for dentists working in FQHC 4. Reduced dues for all members 5. Limited period of no dues for all members 6. No changes in dues. Respondents were able to select more than one option. 41% of respondents favored a reduction, followed by 37% desiring no change and 25% wanting a reduced dues for early career pediatric dentists. Leadership plans to weigh this feedback carefully and present a proposal at the Annual Business Meeting in October 2026 |
The membership survey also gave opportunity for feedback regarading membership dues and operations. Regarding membership dues, we gave the options for: 1. Reduced/graduated dues for early career pediatric dentists 2. Reduced dues for full time pediatric dental faculty 3. Reduced dues for dentists working in FQHC 4. Reduced dues for all members 5. Limited period of no dues for all members 6. No changes in dues. Respondents were able to select more than one option. 41% of respondents favored a reduction, followed by 37% desiring no change and 25% wanting a reduced dues for early career pediatric dentists. Leadership plans to weigh this feedback carefully and present a proposal at the Annual Business Meeting in October 2026 |
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| Treasurer Report Dr. Tessa Holmes, WSAPD President-Elect |
Treasurer Report Dr. Tessa Holmes, WSAPD President-Elect |
The WSAPD total assets at the end of Q2 was $316,316.83, an increase from $284,497.40 the previous quarter. Our primary sources of revenue this quarter were from membership dues (thank you!) and continuing education programing (PALS and FQHC CE). The largest expense categories this quarter were also to support our continuing education programing, as well as contract services and board operations. Thank you to all who responded to our fall membership survey regarding budget and finance transparency and operations. We have formed a Finance Committee that will meet next quarter to develop an Investment Policy Statement outlining our investment goals, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs. Our organization remains committed to the responsible stewardship of member dues and to ensuring that every dollar collected directly supports our mission and provides tangible value back to our members. Thank you to our members who have volunteered to help on this new committee: Dr. Dan Cook, Dr. Patricia Benton, Dr. Brittany Dean, and Dr. Micah Bovenkamp. If you are interested in participating in this committee or have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Gratefully, Dr. Tessa Holmes WSAPD President-Elect |
The WSAPD total assets at the end of Q2 was $316,316.83, an increase from $284,497.40 the previous quarter. Our primary sources of revenue this quarter were from membership dues (thank you!) and continuing education programing (PALS and FQHC CE). The largest expense categories this quarter were also to support our continuing education programing, as well as contract services and board operations. Thank you to all who responded to our fall membership survey regarding budget and finance transparency and operations. We have formed a Finance Committee that will meet next quarter to develop an Investment Policy Statement outlining our investment goals, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs. Our organization remains committed to the responsible stewardship of member dues and to ensuring that every dollar collected directly supports our mission and provides tangible value back to our members. Thank you to our members who have volunteered to help on this new committee: Dr. Dan Cook, Dr. Patricia Benton, Dr. Brittany Dean, and Dr. Micah Bovenkamp. If you are interested in participating in this committee or have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Gratefully, Dr. Tessa Holmes WSAPD President-Elect |
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Advocacy Update Dr. Bri Butler, Public Policy Advocate for WA State |
Advocacy Update Dr. Bri Butler, Public Policy Advocate for WA State |
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As your Public Policy Advocate for Washington, I work in a variety of ways to support the care our patients need and to secure the resources we, as dental professionals, rely on to provide that care. This includes collaborating with the Washington State Dental Association (WSDA), meeting with legislators, and engaging with members of our Washington State Health Care Authority team. Representing both our patients and our profession during a time of financial uncertainty in our state has remained my top Priority. Last year, the Apple Health Pediatric Dental Benefit experienced a funding cut. As our state faces ongoing budget challenges, one of our primary goals this session is to preserve the Apple Health Adult Dental Benefit and prevent any additional reductions to the pediatric benefit. I am pleased to share that Dental One Table aligns with these priorities. For an overview of these and their additional legislative priorities, please click the button below: |
As your Public Policy Advocate for Washington, I work in a variety of ways to support the care our patients need and to secure the resources we, as dental professionals, rely on to provide that care. This includes collaborating with the Washington State Dental Association (WSDA), meeting with legislators, and engaging with members of our Washington State Health Care Authority team. Representing both our patients and our profession during a time of financial uncertainty in our state has remained my top Priority. Last year, the Apple Health Pediatric Dental Benefit experienced a funding cut. As our state faces ongoing budget challenges, one of our primary goals this session is to preserve the Apple Health Adult Dental Benefit and prevent any additional reductions to the pediatric benefit. I am pleased to share that Dental One Table aligns with these priorities. For an overview of these and their additional legislative priorities, please click the button below: |
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This year, the Washington State Legislature is convened for a 60-day short session, meaning all legislative action must be completed by March 12, 2026. Additionally, any bill that did not pass out of its chamber of origin by February 17 is now considered “dead” for the session. Three dental-related bills fell into this category. Although there was significant discussion with legislators regarding their content and potential impact, they will not move forward this year. However, similar versions may be introduced in future sessions, so I encourage members to stay informed: HB 2522 – Advancing oral health equity and protecting access to preventive dental care SB 6146 – Expanding oral health equity and increasing access to preventive dental care by creating an Oral Preventive Assistant license SB 6138 – Requiring the use of a multiprovider system for dental procedures involving deep sedation |
This year, the Washington State Legislature is convened for a 60-day short session, meaning all legislative action must be completed by March 12, 2026. Additionally, any bill that did not pass out of its chamber of origin by February 17 is now considered “dead” for the session. Three dental-related bills fell into this category. Although there was significant discussion with legislators regarding their content and potential impact, they will not move forward this year. However, similar versions may be introduced in future sessions, so I encourage members to stay informed: HB 2522 – Advancing oral health equity and protecting access to preventive dental care SB 6146 – Expanding oral health equity and increasing access to preventive dental care by creating an Oral Preventive Assistant license SB 6138 – Requiring the use of a multiprovider system for dental procedures involving deep sedation |
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While these bills will not proceed this session, several others have passed their chamber of origin and remain under consideration. These measures are being monitored by the WSDA Legislative Committee, which includes other pediatric dentists, general dentists, and other specialist colleagues. They include: SB 5993 – Lowering the interest rate on medical debt SB 5947 – Establishing a Washington health care board, which would include dental representation HB 2532 – Addressing the recreational sale and distribution of nitrous oxid |
While these bills will not proceed this session, several others have passed their chamber of origin and remain under consideration. These measures are being monitored by the WSDA Legislative Committee, which includes other pediatric dentists, general dentists, and other specialist colleagues. They include: SB 5993 – Lowering the interest rate on medical debt SB 5947 – Establishing a Washington health care board, which would include dental representation HB 2532 – Addressing the recreational sale and distribution of nitrous oxid |
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As legislation advances and the final state budget is adopted, I will continue to keep our membership informed about potential impacts on our patients and our profession. Gratefully, Dr. Bri Butler Public Policy Advocate |
As legislation advances and the final state budget is adopted, I will continue to keep our membership informed about potential impacts on our patients and our profession. Gratefully, Dr. Bri Butler Public Policy Advocate |
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2026 FQHC Event Update Dr. Aarika Anderson-Elter, WSPD Trustee & CE Committee Co-Chair |
2026 FQHC Event Update Dr. Aarika Anderson-Elter, WSPD Trustee & CE Committee Co-Chair |
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| WSAPD recently hosted Pediatric Dentistry Update 2026 on January 10 at the Arcora Foundation in Seattle. This full-day course provided 6 CE hours and highlighted recent advances in pediatric dentistry as well as a general review of treatment options and behavior guidance for nearly 50 general dentists serving children in FQHCs. The event provided a valuable opportunity for community health dentists to learn, collaborate, and strengthen the care they provide to children across Washington. This course aligns with WSAPD’s vision of optimal oral health for all children in Washington State and our mission to empower pediatric dental professionals with resources that support the highest standards of care. There are not enough pediatric dentists to meet the needs of every child in our state, making it essential to support general dentists, especially those in FQHCs, who care for children with Medicaid and other vulnerable populations. Care in community health settings is often misunderstood, or undervalued, but this work requires extraordinary dedication, skill, and heart. Having spent more than 15 years working in community health, public health, and tribal health environments, I have seen firsthand the commitment required to care for these patients and families. This CE event was designed to support FQHC providers, strengthen partnerships, and ultimately improve pediatric oral health statewide. We also gratefully recognize the Arcora Foundation for their generous financial contribution and for providing the event space to make this course possible. Gratefully, Dr.. Aarika Anderson Elter WSPD Trustee & CE Committee Co-Chair |
WSAPD recently hosted Pediatric Dentistry Update 2026 on January 10 at the Arcora Foundation in Seattle. This full-day course provided 6 CE hours and highlighted recent advances in pediatric dentistry as well as a general review of treatment options and behavior guidance for nearly 50 general dentists serving children in FQHCs. The event provided a valuable opportunity for community health dentists to learn, collaborate, and strengthen the care they provide to children across Washington. This course aligns with WSAPD’s vision of optimal oral health for all children in Washington State and our mission to empower pediatric dental professionals with resources that support the highest standards of care. There are not enough pediatric dentists to meet the needs of every child in our state, making it essential to support general dentists, especially those in FQHCs, who care for children with Medicaid and other vulnerable populations. Care in community health settings is often misunderstood, or undervalued, but this work requires extraordinary dedication, skill, and heart. Having spent more than 15 years working in community health, public health, and tribal health environments, I have seen firsthand the commitment required to care for these patients and families. This CE event was designed to support FQHC providers, strengthen partnerships, and ultimately improve pediatric oral health statewide. We also gratefully recognize the Arcora Foundation for their generous financial contribution and for providing the event space to make this course possible. Gratefully, Dr.. Aarika Anderson Elter WSPD Trustee & CE Committee Co-Chair |
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Thank you for spending a little time with us - your involvement in this community truly means a lot. |
Thank you for spending a little time with us - your involvement in this community truly means a lot. |
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