The Diverse Dental Society (DDS) announces LaVette C. Henderson as their new President for 2022. Ms. Henderson is an accomplished association, conference, and financial leader. She has earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management with honors, an Associate’s Degree in Accounting and she is a Certified Meeting Professional. She brings over 30 years of experience with a diverse set of skills which will be an asset to DDS.
LaVette is the former Executive Director of the National Dental Association (NDA) and currently serves as their Director of Finance. She joined the NDA team in 1998, moved up the ranks and continues to work tirelessly to advocate for marginalized and underserved populations in promoting oral health access and equity. With over 200,000 active dentists in the US, only approximately 3.5% have been honored to become Fellows of the American College of Dentists, Ms. Henderson received this honor in 2019 for her leadership and achievements in dentistry as a non-dentist.
Ms. Henderson is excited to lead the organization in its new laser-focused charge; “The mission is to achieve equity in oral health as a vital component of overall health for marginalized communities through education, service, and advocacy," while the “Purpose is to enhance the growth, influence and impact of the Hispanic Dental Association, National Dental Association, and Society of American Indian Dentists on achieving the Diverse Dental Society’s mission”.
Ms. Henderson’s goal is to lead the DDS Board of Directors in amplifying the voice of diversity and inclusion in the oral health arena by making sure that the needs of the marginalized communities in our country are addressed and met. DDS will continue to promote inter-professional collaborations and believes it is essential for a healthier nation. The 2022 theme for DDS is: “DDS: Strengthening Oral Health and Oral Health Care in Diverse Communities”. Ms. Henderson added “The Diverse Dental Society strives for diversity, equity and inclusion in overall health, where oral health is a vital component”.
