CHICAGO, December 15 – Today, Oral Health America (OHA) announces that Dr. Michael Alfano will be recognized with the Tribute Award at its 26th Annual Gala & Benefit on February 24, 2016 at Navy Pier in Chicago. Dr. Michael Alfano, DMD, PhD serves as Professor, Dean and Executive Vice President Emeritus at New York University. Each year, OHA honors an individual whose career significantly impacts oral health on a regional or national level; has been innovative, creative and pioneering; able to demonstrate positive, measurable change over a sustained period; and, achieved success in overcoming barriers to oral health access, education and advocacy. “Dr. Alfano more than exemplifies each of these criteria for this award in the most profound ways imaginable,” said Beth Truett, President & CEO for Oral Health America. “Beyond his loyalty to Oral Health America’s mission and work, his belief in health equity and the need for change in prioritizing oral health for all Americans lives with the Santa Fe Group, the 2016 Global Oral Cancer Forum and so many other important initiatives.”  The tribute award will be presented at OHA’s Annual fundraising benefit. Hosted at Chicago’s historic Navy Pier, this highly anticipated event kicks off the Chicago Midwinter Meeting and will feature a cocktail reception, dinner and dancing, as well as a silent auction and raffle. The theme, Mardi Gras Redux, also heralds Oral Health America’s return to one of the city’s spectacular landmark during its centennial year. Tickets for OHA’s gala are currently on sale. Proceeds underwrite OHA's mission to connect communities to resources to solve problems and raise awareness about the importance of oral health's impact on overall health. OHA’s programs serving children and older adults have grown through support received from this annual event. Please join Oral Health America at Mardi Gras Redux and commit to making a difference in the oral health of all Americans, especially those most vulnerable. The gala is generously sponsored by Presenting Sponsor Kavo Kerr Group; Technology Sponsors Ivoclar Vivadent and Patterson Dental; Entertainment Sponsor Henry Schein Dental; Diamond Sponsors, DENTSPLY International, Colgate Palmolive, DentaQuest, SciCan, Septodont and Philips Sonicare; Platinum Sponsors Midmark and Darby Dental and Gold Sponsor Planmeca USA, Inc. To purchase tickets, sponsorships or for additional information, please visit oralhealthamerica.org/gala or contact Brad McLaughlin at brad.mclaughlin@oralhealthamerica.org or (312) 836-9900.