The American Association of Women Dentists (AAWD) recognized IUSD as Chapter of the Year!

The award celebrated excellence and achievements in innovations and programming, such as celebrating women dentists during International Women’s Day  and spotlighting members on the chapter’s Instagram page.

The chapter’s goal is to be the leading resource for advancing, connecting, and enriching the lives of women in dentistry and offer opportunities for personal growth through networking and other professions, said Anastasia Zagordo, D3, chapter president.

“I’m beyond proud to look at all that the IU AAWD chapter has accomplished, despite the trials and tribulations of this year,” Zagordo said. “With a continuously growing chapter, and in a time when flexibility and creativity were paramount, our group of outstanding women has thrived.”

IUSD AAWD began as a club in 2014 and transitioned to a chapter with the help of Drs. LaQuia Vinson, associate professor and Pediatric Dentistry residency director; Elizabeth Ramos (Perio’08), former clinical assistant professor, Periodontology; Angela Ritchie, clinical assistant professor, Oral Pathology, Medicine and Radiology; and Tawana Ware (Peds’08), clinical assistant professor, Pediatrics. 

Dr. Ware, IU chapter advisor and former AAWD national president, said, “The pride I have for the women who are flourishing despite the difficulties of this year speaks to their resilience and leadership. They achieved this award during the pandemic, taking the initiative to be a beacon of light and creativity by helping people feel connected. It’s a testament to the women in this organization.”