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Membership

Diversity is our strength.

We believe that diversity is a strength. Ensuring the involvement of our diverse membership will make the AAO stronger and more cohesive. We are committed to drawing on the differences in who we are, our experiences, and how we think to better serve and represent our organization, our members, our communities, and our patients.

Get involved.

Inspire change by getting involved. Volunteer your time or your story, because we’re better together.

Proudly supporting and inspiring diverse members within the AAO.

Our vision is to create a place where all members feel valued and included by embracing the differences between people and creating an environment of involvement, respect, and connection—where the richness of ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives are celebrated.

Representation

Increase representation of the underrepresented groups throughout our membership, involvement, and speaker lineups.

Inclusion

Foster inclusion and engagement to build a culture of belonging by developing pathways to leadership.

Accountability

Develop and implement a short and long-term roadmap towards a more equitable and inclusive association.

Support and Inspire.

Developing pathways for you.

Work to support and inspire diverse groups within the AAO by helping to develop tools and pathways to leadership.

Identify obstacles.

Overcoming obstacles.

Identify obstacles for involvement in the AAO and make recommendations for change.

Address needs.

The pillars of change.

Identify the unique needs and issues that face diverse orthodontists and implement plans to address these needs.

Implicit Bias Training

Implicit or unconscious bias refers to the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decision-making. Implicit bias training helps people recognize and overcome that unconscious bias. In alignment with the AAO’s core value to, “embrace diversity and inclusion”, the Special Committee on Inclusion and Engagement has identified several applicable courses AAO members should consider. 

The AAO for Women

networking. leadership. education. for everyone.

The Special Committee on Women Orthodontists works to equip female members with tools to address barriers unique to them. From promoting pathways to engagement and leadership to establishing learning and networking opportunities, SCWO advocates for female orthodontists.

Starting the conversation: A podcast series spotlighting issues important to women.

The Special Committee on Women Orthodontics (SCWO) was formed to recognize the unique needs and issues women orthodontists face. Through thoughtful conversation, the SCWO has identified topics you’ll find informative, ranging from stress management to unconscious bias in the workplace. Over the next few months, we invite you to meet inspirational leaders in various industries and find encouragement through their own stories and triumphs.