Each quarter, the AAO Society of Educators profiles an educator who is excelling in his or her role. This quarter, the SOE sought input from orthodontic program leaders regarding practicing orthodontists or retired orthodontists who give back by being part-time orthodontic educators.

The SOE members selected Dr. David Harmon as the subject of this quarter’s Spotlight. Dr. Harmon is a clinical assistant professor in the University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD) Division of Orthodontics. He is also an adjunct assistant professor in the Case Western Reserve University orthodontic program and has a full-time practice in Mitchellville and Bowie, Maryland.

“David is one of those individuals who make a mark in our profession,” said Dr. Jose Bosio, chief and postgraduate program director of the UMSOD Division of Orthodontics. “He is strongly involved with all aspects of our digital program, teaching digital orthodontics and installing and managing all of our 3D printers and associated software. He comes in on days when he is not scheduled to be in the clinic to help resolve digital problems. He meets with residents remotely in the evenings to plan cases online and teaches in-house aligner fabrication.

“In addition, David served as president of the Middle Atlantic Orthodontic Society (MASO) and put together a fantastic meeting at the Gaylord National Resort at National Harbor in Maryland,” added Dr. Bosio. “His passion for orthodontics is contagious. All residents, staff and full-and part-time faculty love his personality and demeanor. He truly embodies our core values and deserves to be recognized as an exceptional part-time orthodontic faculty member.”

Other comments from colleagues and residents in the UMSOD orthodontic program noted Dr. Harmon’s generosity in sharing his time and expertise with 3D printing and soft tissue management, and donating 3D printers and a scanner to the program.

Dr. Harmon previously served on the planning committee for the AAO Leadership Development Conference and is a member of the AAO Special Committee on Inclusion and Engagement. Now a past president of MASO, he continues to serve the constituent organization as a member of its Government Affairs and Nominating committees.

“A dedicated orthodontic educator, Dr. Harmon deserves to be featured as one of the best part-time faculty in the country,” said Dr. Bosio.