President's Message

Kelly Mansfield

CDA II

 Dear ODAA Members,

 

Please allow me to introduce myself: My name is Kelly Mansfield and I have been a proud member of the ODAA for over 30 years.  I am humbled, honoured and privileged to assume the role of President of the Ontario Dental Assistants Association.

 

My interest in promoting the importance of oral health began at a young age when I enrolled in a community college dental assisting program prior to completing high school, becoming a CDA in 1999.  Since then I have furthered my education by obtaining CDA II and Orthodontic module certificates as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Sociology.  Throughout my career I have gained valuable knowledge and experience in a variety of clinical, technical, and instructional oral health services in both the private and public sectors. I have also been privileged to be involved with developing oral health policy administration and program delivery to improve the oral health within vulnerable Canadian populations as a federal public servant.

 

I joined to ODAA Board of Directors in 2015 and have had the pleasure of working with some remarkably intelligent and empowering dental assistants who are passionate about supporting members and furthering the interests and wellbeing of Ontario dental assistants.  I encourage all members to consider volunteering with the Board of Directors to further the goals of the ODAA and to voice your concerns and requests through member forums and events to ensure we are moving forward together in promoting the dental assisting profession.

 

Over the past several months our members have faced unprecedented challenges and hardships – both professionally and personally.  As oral health clinics have re-opened and re-evaluated their policies and procedures, Ontario’s dental assistants continue to build trust and confidence with patients by adhering to infection control protocols and guidelines that they have been practicing throughout their careers.  It is important that we reflect and remember that the work of dental assistants is also on the front-line of protecting the public while providing an essential health service.

 

My goal for the ODAA is to maintain our commitment to address the needs of our members and to provide the support required to advance the best interests of the membership and the association.  

 

I look forward to collaborating with members to leverage new opportunities to increase membership value and growth for dental assistants in Ontario.

 

Take good care and stay safe & healthy.

 

Kelly Mansfield BA, CDA II