President’s Message

As we enter the last month of the year, I can’t help but be amazed by how fast it’s gone! We started the year under very strict Covid restrictions, with all inperson meetings cancelled and a general uncertainty of what the year would bring for our profession. Now, in contrast, restrictions are easing, vaccinations are plentiful, and in-person meetings are back! The challenges of the dynamic shifts in health and safety policy do continue to be a constant challenge to navigate in both the Dental Society and our offices, though. If I were to sum up this year in a mantra for the business of dentistry, it would be “find a way.” That is exactly what we’ve done this year. As dentists, we found a way to continue working. Even with the everchanging health and practice guidelines, the rush at the beginning of the year for vaccinations, the constant staff shortages, and the scarcity and price increases of PPE, we found a way. The Dental Society and our rockstar staff spent countless hours adapting to the ever-changing landscape to truly serve our members by pivoting, finding ways to offer CE to our members, and constantly working with our local heath officers to clarify guidelines. We have been constantly working with CDA to get information on their legislative push to help our profession and get the word out via snail mail, email, and social media about all these changes. Take a minute before you open any of the Dental Society emails and check the time and date stamp to see when they were sent. A lot were sent after hours, on the weekends, and in the very early morning. Our staff continue to work tirelessly and have truly embraced the mantra of “find a way.” This year, I had the honor to witness, participate in, and work through everything with the Dental Society. I have to say, it was very humbling to see the amount of talent our Dental Society staff members have and the energy they spend supporting us as a profession. I am so very

Find A Way thankful to everyone who has worked so hard throughout this year to make sure we do keep moving forward. Our Board, Task Forces, CDA Trustees, and committees, filled with volunteer dentists, have really shown true leadership and dedication. Their passion and energy not only are infectious but also have helped keep the Dental Society charging forward in these unknown waters. I want to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to all our volunteers and staff members, who keep inspiring me to do better and work harder. Thank you for your time, energy, talent, and commitment to dentistry and our society. I will forever be motivated and humbled by my experiences as your President this year. I know our future is bright and that we will be in good hands with Dr. Wes Yee, our incoming President, at the helm next year. 

By Volki Felahy, DDS

2021 SDDS President

It Has Been a Pleasure

Having Dr. Felahy as Our President This Past Year!