Search Dental Tribune

ICD launches Global Oral Health Leadership Institute

From left: Prof. Argirios Pissiotis, past global president of the International College of Dentists (ICD); Dr Ira Titunik, president of the ICD US section; Dr Brett Kessler, president of the American Dental Association; Stanley M. Bergman, chairman of the board and CEO of Henry Schein; Dr Carol Summerhays, consultant to Henry Schein; Dr Robert Faiella, president of the American College of Dentists; Dr Ian Doyle, global president of the ICD; and Dr Joseph Kenneally, secretary-general of the ICD. (Image: ICD)

Wed. 22 January 2025

save

NEW YORK, US: The International College of Dentists (ICD), in partnership with Henry Schein, celebrated the launch of the Global Oral Health Leadership (GOHL) Institute at a distinguished dinner event held at the Harvard Club of New York City in the US on 1 December 2024. The evening marked a transformative moment for oral health worldwide, bringing together leaders, entrepreneurs and stakeholders committed to advancing oral health equity.

The GOHL Institute is intended to develop and empower oral health leaders to systemically advance oral health care, access and policy at all levels, especially in underserved communities. Dr Ian Doyle, ICD global president, highlighted the expanded mission of the institute, noting its focus on collaboration, inclusion and innovation. “This is not just a continuation of an impactful programme,” he stated, “but an evolution aimed at addressing today’s most pressing global health challenges through leadership, policy and advocacy”.

Dr Sara Hurley, GOHL Institute programme director and former chief dental officer of England, previewed the past, present and future vision of the programme, emphasising the interconnectedness of oral health with broader health and socio-economic systems. “Oral health is a social justice issue,” she remarked. “Through the GOHL Institute, we aim to nurture leaders prepared to tackle disparities, navigate complex global systems and champion equitable access to care.”

The celebratory event showcased the unique interdisciplinary approach of the GOHL Institute, which brings together experts from dentistry, public health, industry and academia. Delegates from Harvard University, King’s College London and industry partners such as Henry Schein were recognised for their pivotal roles in shaping the programme and their support for the GOHL Institute’s predecessor, the Senior Dental Leaders programme. Attendees included Senior Dental Leaders alumni, ICD global leaders from 20 countries, and prominent industry and media figures.

Stanley M. Bergman, chairman of the board and CEO of Henry Schein, spoke on the company’s 20-year partnership with the programme and its commitment to advancing oral health initiatives globally. Henry Schein’s financial and technical contributions have been instrumental in transitioning the programme into the dynamic GOHL Institute platform.

“The power of public–private partnerships, coupled with visionary leadership, can unlock the potential to improve oral health worldwide,” said Bergman. “Initiatives like the GOHL Institute exemplify our shared commitment to prioritising oral health as an integral part of overall well-being. Together, we can bridge the gap in global oral health and create a healthier future for all.”

The inaugural cohort of the GOHL Institute is a diverse group of practitioners, educators, industry entrepreneurs and humanitarians representing ten countries and various backgrounds. The 2025 programme will kick off this month, concentrating on developing leadership skills, fostering project-focused interdisciplinary collaboration and creating a sustainable global network of leaders and alumni. Dr Hurley expressed her hope for the future, stating: “The leaders emerging from this programme will transform how the world thinks about oral health, making it a priority, a right and a reality for all.”

The dinner’s celebratory tone reflected the bold ambitions of the GOHL Institute and the collective commitment of its supporters to shape a healthier, more equitable future. The event concluded with a call to action: to leverage the collective expertise and passion in the room to make a lasting impact on global oral health through development and support of the programme.

Topics:
Tags:
To post a reply please login or register
advertisement
advertisement