ODA Journal: May/June

congratulations dr. krista jones JAMES A. SADDORIS LIFETIME OF LEADERSHIP AWARD Dr. Krista Jones is known for her tenacity, enthusiasm and bottomless wealth of energy when it comes to promoting oral health and advocating for the dental profession. With a simple flip through the Oklahoma Dental Association archives, it is clear that she has improved every program with which she has been involved. In fact, it is a challenge to find an ODA award she has not won, or council she has not joined. Because of her involvement in the ODA, dentistry in Oklahoma has been changed for the better.

The most prestigious award given by the ODA was created to honor a member who, through a lifetime of service, exemplified the spirit, devotion and commitment of its namesake, James A. Saddoris. This year, the members of the Oklahoma Dental Association honor Dr. Krista Jones for being the highest example of those same characteristics.

Since graduating from the OU College of Dentistry in 1981, (after attending undergrad at the University in Oklahoma- where her energy was appropriately utilized in cheerleading) Jones has left no stone unturned. While running a practice in Edmond, OK, Jones has worked steadily to ensure progression, security, and innovation in the dental profession. She has faithfully served the ODA House of Delegates since 1982 as an Oklahoma County delegate and as Speaker from 20102016. She has served the ODA in every office including president in 2007-2008. She chaired the Sub-Council on Mediation Review from 1999-2005, during which time she was instrumental in the development of the mediation review manual and the mediator training program still used today. She continues to advocate and educate students on the ethics in the practice and avoidance of patient conflict.

18 journal | May/June 2021