The AAO has received a Power of Associations Silver Award in the Power of Advocacy category from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), for its successful National Advocacy Network (NAN) initiative.

“Congratulations to AAO Advocacy and the National Advocacy Network for exemplifying the impact associations have on the industries and professions they represent, and on society at large,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “It’s always so incredibly satisfying to see associations going above and beyond their everyday mission to change the world. We’re very proud to spotlight this award-winning initiative.”

The AAO’s NAN launched in October 2022 to address the growing need for member engagement with state and federal lawmakers and regulators for enhanced grassroots influence and resources supporting patient health and safety for access to high-quality care.

The NAN is an inaugural group of AAO member volunteer advocates contributing to the strategic development of AAO’s advocacy priorities. This inaugural class of NAN Founders will help chart future success, enhancing the specialty while protecting patient health and safety through grassroots advocacy influence and driving evidence-based policies that the AAO can support.

“The ASAE Power of Associations Award program gives recognition to many outstanding examples of creativity and innovation in how associations serve members and the public,” said AAO Chief Executive Officer Lynne Thomas Gordon, CAE. “The AAO is honored to have our grassroots advocacy program receive the Power of Advocacy Silver Award. We believe that our members who are participating in the NAN program will be delighted to learn of this recognition of their advocacy for public policies that protect orthodontic patient safety and support fair treatment of their businesses.”

Within the existing structure of two inaugural NAN leadership positions, the AAO hopes to achieve representation for the Component Advocacy Liaison (CAL) role in all 50 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the Canadian provinces, as well as 52 positions for the AAOPAC Captain role within the U.S. 

Currently, there are 22 CALs and members of state CAL teams, and 14 AAOPAC Captains.
View A Map Showing Filled and Open NAN Positions 

Even if leadership has been identified for a state, members there are encouraged to consider applying for consideration. The AAO advocacy team looks forward to building strong state and provincial volunteer leadership teams. AAO is working hard to secure leadership that represents AAO membership at all career levels: residency, practice – and retirement. 

To learn more about how to get engaged in state or provincial activity and learn more about the National Advocacy Network, text “NAN” to 52886. Kim VanVeen, AAO grassroots and digital advocacy specialist, will reach out to have a private discussion with you about the NAN.
View Information about NAN Opportunities