P&C
ASDA NYU
NYSDA House of Delegates June, 2012
The Annual House of Delegates meeting is a prime example of the grassroots-style through which NYSDA governs itself and influences the dental profession. ASDA NYU’s Vice-President Michele Equinda (‘15) attended this year’s meeting as a student delegate.
by Michele Equinda (‘15),
ASDA NYU Vice-President
“As an ASDA District, we are given one vote on the House floor, which attests to the idea that students do have a voice.”
was to attend the New York State Dental Association Annual House of Delegates from June 7-9th, 2012, at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City. It was a perfect introduction to Organized Dentistry and reinforced the importance of student involvement. Along with student representatives from Stony Brook, Columbia, and Buffalo, as well as the District 2 Trustee, I sat in on the House proceedings over the course of the Session. As an ASDA District, we are given one vote on the House floor, which attests to the idea that students do have a voice. I listened to the Delegates from the New York State local components discuss resolutions to the NYSDA bylaws. I also joined the New York County Dental Society Caucus, where the pros and cons of the proposed resolutions were weighed, and eventually voted upon on the House Floor. Throughout the Session, many speakers discussed the importance of the ADA, ADPAC, community service opportunities, and many other topics. I became aware of the pressing issues affecting our profession and quickly came to see the influence of the people in the room in shaping the future of the dental profession. During the Session, I also attended the New Dentist Conference, which included various speakers, who provided a range of information and resources for students making the transition from university clinics to private practice. Finally, I attended several social events and the President’s Dinner Dance, where the incoming and outgoing presidents were honored. My attendance at the NYSDA House of Delegates allowed me to meet numerous representatives from all over New York State and appreciate the passion and dedication with which they serve our profession.
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Michele Equinda with conference attendees at the House of Delegates
Photo courtesy of Michele Equinda
My first responsibility as the NYU ASDA Vice President