ADHA’s committees play a vital role in advancing the mission of the association and supporting the dental hygiene profession. Each committee operates under a specific charge that defines its purpose, responsibilities, and scope of work. See below how this committee contributes to ADHA’s strategic priorities.
Advocacy Advisory Committee
Charge and Responsibilities
Purpose:
The Advocacy Advisory Committee (AAC) is established to support and strengthen the advocacy efforts of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association at the state and federal levels. This group will serve as a strategic resource to the Board of Directors, organizational leadership, and constituents, offering expertise, consultation, and guidance on legislative and regulatory matters impacting the dental hygiene profession and the oral health of the public.
Charge:
The Advocacy Advisory Committee is charged with the following responsibilities:
- Serve as a Resource to States:
Provide guidance, support, and technical assistance to state constituents on legislative and regulatory initiatives as requested. This may include issue analysis, strategic planning, communication support, and resource sharing. - Consultation on State Legislative Issues:
Collaborate with state leaders to advise on strategies, opportunities, and challenges related to advancing policy priorities at the state level. Group members may be called upon to participate in meetings, public hearings, or strategic discussions. - Federal Advocacy Engagement:
Participate in the development, review, and implementation of federal advocacy priorities. This includes monitoring relevant federal legislation, engaging in strategic communications, and contributing to written or oral testimony, comment letters, and other advocacy tools. - Development of Case Studies:
Document significant legislative or regulatory efforts, including the issue or opportunity, strategies used, stakeholders involved, barriers encountered, and outcomes achieved. These case studies will serve as learning tools and models for other states and national advocacy efforts. - Contribute Content:
Contribute content to Hygienist Hub and relevant webinars. - Reporting:
Submit an annual report to the Board of Directors summarizing the group’s activities, achievements, and recommendations. The group may also provide interim updates as needed, particularly in response to emerging issues or time-sensitive developments.
Membership:
The Advocacy Advisory Committee shall consist of individuals with demonstrated experience and expertise in advocacy, policy development, legislative strategy, and public affairs. Members are appointed by ADHA leadership and serve a 2-year term.
Meetings:
The group will convene at least quarterly, with additional meetings scheduled as needed to address emerging issues or urgent requests.
Staff Liaison:
ADHA Advocacy staff members, Dr. JoAnn Gurenlian and Katherine Williamson, will serve as liaisons to support communication, coordination, and documentation of the group’s work.
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For questions about ADHA committees, please contact [email protected].