Thanks to the dedication and generosity of AAO members across the country, AAOPAC closed the 2025–2026 fiscal year by raising $467,024, surpassing the AAOPAC Board’s fundraising goal of $460,000 and achieving 102% of its target. 

The achievement reflects the power of a united voice committed to protecting and advancing orthodontics through advocacy.  

“The momentum we’ve built this year is something worth celebrating,” said Gianna Nawrocki, AAO Advocacy Manager and AAOPAC Treasurer. “AAOPAC plays a critical role in ensuring orthodontists have a strong voice in policy decisions that shape the orthodontic profession at both the federal and state levels. As we look toward the 2026-2027 fiscal year, our continued success will depend on growing participation and demonstrating the strength and unity of AAO members.” 

In addition to exceeding its fundraising goal, AAOPAC also saw growth in member participation. The AAOPAC finished the fiscal year with 844 contributors, a 1% increase over the previous year. While there is still room to grow, each new contributor represents another advocate helping ensure orthodontists and their patients have a strong voice in policy discussions affecting patients and practices across the country. 

Several constituent organizations posted strong participation rates this year: 

  • GLAO – 8.1% 
  • SAO – 7.6% 
  • MASO – 7.2% 
  • MSAO – 6.7% 
  • MSO – 5.9% 
  • RMSO – 5.6% 
  • SWSO – 4.9% 
  • PCSO – 3.9% 
  • NESO – 3.7% 

These results reflect the commitment of members and leaders across every constituent region who stepped forward to support advocacy and invest in the future of the specialty. 

AAOPAC’s success is driven by the AAOPAC Board, including the leadership of AAOPAC Chair, Dr. Edward Davis, and Board of Trustees Liaison to the AAOPAC Board, Dr. Steve Robirds, AAOPAC Captains in the National Advocacy Network, constituent leaders, AAO Advocacy/AAOPAC staff, and every member who chooses to invest in the future of orthodontics through AAOPAC.  

Building on this momentum, the AAOPAC Board has launched the Race to 10 Challenge, a new initiative encouraging each constituent region to achieve 10% member participation in AAOPAC giving. Running from June 1 through December 1, the challenge is designed to grow engagement, strengthen advocacy efforts, and foster friendly competition among regions. 

The goal is simple: more voices, greater impact. 

As AAOPAC begins a new fiscal year, members are encouraged to support their constituency, climb the Race to 10 leaderboard, and help achieve a record-setting year. 

Visit AAOPAC.org to make your contribution and join the effort.