General Dentists Honored at AGD’s 2020 Annual Meeting

  • by AGD Staff
  • Oct 26, 2020

10-26-20_Honor_AGeneral dentistry benefits from the talents of so many people, and AGD leaders were pleased to honor the following members at its annual meeting, held virtually this year, Oct. 23–25. 

Distinguished Service Award
AGD’s 2020 Distinguished Service Award was presented to Ralph A. Cooley, DDS, FAGD. Cooley has served AGD in numerous roles, including as a member of the Dental Practice Council, Self-Instruction Committee and Budget and Finance Committee as well as trustee and delegate. As a Texas AGD leader, he also served as president and a member of the Texas AGD Board. 

Humanitarian Award
AGD honored California general dentist Yolanda M. Mangrum, DDS, MAGD, as the 2020 Humanitarian Award Winner. With a commitment to oral health, community and the needs of our world, Mangrum is an ambitious leader who believes the possibilities for growth are limitless. She is a mother, wife, leader, teacher and businessperson.

Ritz Award
AGD’s 2020 Ritz Award was presented to New Jersey general dentist Joseph A. Battaglia, DMD, FAGD. Battaglia has worked with a numerous leaders and government officials and has been a frontline advocate for general dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in many practice closures and unclear direction from governors and other legislative leaders. Battaglia led the Dental Practice Council in its efforts to assist AGD and its members in reopening and recovery. He also previously served as chair of the Legislative and Governmental Affairs Council.

Presidential Citations
Immediate past president Connie L. White, DDS, FAGD, presented Presidential Citations to the following AGD members and staff who supported the organization and her work:

  • Joseph A. Battaglia, DMD, FAGD, chair, Dental Practice Council.
  • Chethan Chetty, DDS, MAGD, chair, Membership Council.
  • Jennifer Goler, associate director of governance.
  • Kristin Gover, director of communications.
  • Jeanie Kennedy, manager, dental practice and policy.
  • Joyce King, education manager.
  • George Schmidt, interim chair, Dental Education Council.
  • Erin Wellin, director of meetings.

AGD Editor Honored
Longtime AGD Editor Roger D. Winland, DDS, MS, MAGD, was also honored for his 24 years of consecutive service to the organization. Read more about Winland’s contributions, and send your tributes to him.