Northwest Region 1
Dr. Chris Johnson (Eau Claire) – curriculum vitae
- Why would you like to be a Wisconsin Dental Association trustee? The WDA is a member driven organization and, as a member, I would like to continue volunteering to lead us into the future. The WDA is in need of member dentists that are willing to get involved with organized dentistry. We as member dentists need to be vigilant in protecting patients and the profession of dentistry in the state of Wisconsin from forces trying to negatively affect the practice of dentistry. I would like to continue serving as your Region 1 Trustee to continue to protect the WDA member interests.
- What issues do you believe will shape the future of this organization? I think that membership is the most important factor in the health of the WDA to advance the interests of the dental We need to foster relationships with our fellow dentists and support the importance of organized dentistry to secure the future of our profession. Dentists need to volunteer and be involved for the good of our patients and our dental practices. We can shape our future positively with involvement in the WDA to support the dental profession locally, at the state level and nationally only with the support of a strong membership.
Northeast Region 2
Dr. Paula Crum (Green Bay) – curriculum vitae
- Why would you like to be a Wisconsin Dental Association trustee? I have been involved in organized dentistry for 30 years in various capacities. But serving as a Northeast Region 2 Trustee for the past three years has truly been one of the greatest privileges in my professional life. Representing our member dentists on the Board of Trustees, and at the same time working closely with a dedicated group of dentists and WDA staff to advocate for all Wisconsin dentists and our patients has been an enlightening as well as rewarding experience. It would be my honor to serve for a second term as your Trustee.
- What issues do you believe will shape the future of this organization? The future of our organization will be shaped by the dentists we attract into involved membership. Both recent graduates and experienced dentists need to see the value in WDA membership and this begins at the local level. We must work to revitalize component societies, so we can engage in the discussions that highlight the value of our state and national associations to our members.
The success of the Medicaid pilot project is imperative to demonstrate to legislators the ability of Wisconsin dentists to treat underserved populations of our state without the need of additional levels of providers or delivery models.
Greater Milwaukee Region 3
Dr. Rick Mueller (Hales Corners) – curriculum vitae
- Why would you like to be a Wisconsin Dental Association trustee? I want to insure that the next 30-40 years of practicing dentistry in Wisconsin is as good as or better than the last 30-40 years. I want to leave the woodpile a little higher than when I started.
- What issues do you believe will shape the future of this organization? Getting the new graduates and younger dentists to join and stay in organized dentistry. Keeping the dues at a reasonable and affordable rate. Making sure that the WDA stays active and relevant. The WDA needs to stay a member driven organization.
Southeast Region 4
Dr. Carl Meyers (West Bend) – curriculum vitae
- Why would you like to be a Wisconsin Dental Association trustee? I believe in organized dentistry. Without a unified voice, others will shape the future of our profession without our input. I do not want that to happen. So, we must support our local, state, and national associations, and that means volunteering to help. Having been on several committees, I see the work necessary to keep the WDA relevant and want to help carry the load. I am grateful to have been a Trustee for the last three years and look forward to continuing to do so for another term.
- What issues do you believe will shape the future of this organization? There are a lot of issues on the horizon for the WDA. The progression of the Affordable Care Act, the expansion of hygiene settings, the likely fight coming about mid-level providers, working for increased reimbursement for Medicaid patients and the intrusion of insurance companies into the care of our patients are a few I can think of right off the bat. We need to be part of these discussions, and having a strong, unified voice is the only way we will be invited to do so.
Southwest Region 5
Dr. Joe Uker (La Crosse) – curriculum vitae
- Why would you like to be a Wisconsin Dental Association trustee? Servant leadership is a calling I have always answered. It provides great opportunities for growth. To be a WDA Trustee, one must prescribe to this attribute. Trustees represent our colleagues, patients and the WDA. It is important to approach issues with an open mind without bias or preconceived notions. It is essential that we ask questions, gather information, be spokespeople, advocate on behalf of dentists and patients and work well together as a team. I enjoy the team approach and will exemplify the aforementioned qualities. I will bring energy and enthusiasm to this exceptional organization!
- What issues do you believe will shape the future of this organization? In order to create an enhanced environment for WDA dentists, we need to maximize the component experience. We must engage our membership. Component leaders should learn the needs and priorities of their members. It starts with nurturing exceptional relationships and providing meaningful events and education. Local enthusiasm will naturally increase state level participation. Then as a state, we will be well represented on the national stage.
