2025 President's Messages: Tomika Johnson-Flowers, MPH, BSDH, RDH

March 2025
Reflections on the 160th Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting and the Importance of Professional Engagement

Greetings,

I hope this message finds you well. I recently had the pleasure of attending the 160th annual Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting, and I wanted to share some reflections from this enriching experience.

Despite the chilly weather, the warmth of reconnecting with fellow dental professionals was truly heartening. The event was a testament to our community's resilience and dedication. Notably, this year marks a pivotal moment with the upcoming sunset of the dental practice act, prompting numerous meaningful discussions among all members of the dental team. It was also delightful to see both current and former students as well as engage with individuals from various dental-related programs.

For those who haven't attended a dental meeting recently, I highly encourage you to consider participating. Beyond the valuable continuing education credits, these gatherings offer a chance to rejuvenate your passion for our profession and expand your network.

On the topic of professional growth, I'd like to address the significance of membership in our organization, the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA).

As a tripartite organization, you have access to national, state, and component level membership which provides access to a wealth of resources, including discounts on education events, insurance, travel, and others.

I understand that there are various reasons professionals may choose not to renew their memberships. I asked ChatGPT what are the most common reasons, here's the response:

• Lack of Engagement: Feeling disconnected or uninvolved can lead members to question the value of their membership.

• Perceived Insufficient Value: Without a clear return on investment, the cost of membership may seem unjustified.

• Forgetting to Renew: Sometimes, lapses occur simply because the renewal process was overlooked.

• Financial Constraints: Economic challenges can make membership dues seem unaffordable.

• Competition from Other Organizations: The perception that another organization offers better benefits can influence decisions.

In Illinois, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive organization of dental hygienists, and there is always space for you here. Keep an eye out in the coming weeks tor opportunities to support your professional organization, including in-person and online continuing education events, as well as other member engagements.

Together, we can strengthen our profession and continue to provide exceptional care to those we serve.

January 2025
Guided by Tradition, Driven by Innovation 

Thank you, Illinois Dental Hygienists Association, for allowing me to serve as president for the 2024-2025 year. I do not take this position lightly. Your trust and support are invaluable. I would like to give thanks to those who have helped guide me throughout my career, which ultimately led me here. From educators who encouraged me to employers who nudged and facilitated opportunities for growth, to my family who stood by me and friends who inspired me, thank you all. 

To our immediate past president, Lori McNamara, thank you for your guidance and direction over the past year. Your unwavering commitment has not gone unnoticed. 

It goes without saying, it is through the dedication and hard work of current and past leadership that we remain a beacon for all Illinois dental hygienists. Thank you for leading with purpose and for empowering all of us to achieve great things together. 

To the wonderful dental hygienists who no longer practice, your experience is invaluable. I would like to take a moment to encourage you to continue your dental hygiene journey through mentorship and advocacy. We can use the past to create a better future for the profession of dental hygiene. 

To the new dental hygiene graduates, congratulations on your accomplishment, and remember: together, we can achieve even more. 

To current dental hygiene students, you are fearless and strong. You are traveling a road used by many. Seek answers, provide solutions, build legacies, and most of all, keep going. 

It is my passion as a dental hygienist to advocate for access to care for all communities, not just those who can afford it. In order to move in this direction, we will need to increase our scope of practice, lobby for support, be ready and able to provide clinical services, and educate stakeholders. It is my hope that through access to care, we can reach all Illinois dental hygienists through professional development and association. Whether you are in private practice, public health, education, technology, or regulation, we can all agree oral health is required for overall health. The Illinois Dental Hygienists Association has a place for you. 

Together, guided by tradition and driven by innovation, we will continue to elevate our profession, expand our reach, and make a lasting impact.

Thank you.

Tomika Johnson-Flowers

To view messages from past IDHA Presidents, please view the archive below:

2024 President's Messages: Lori McNamara