Abstract
AADEJ President Dr. Chris Smiley advocates for a reframing of volunteer organizations' focus from "What’s in it for me?" to "What’s in it for us?" to ensure viability. This change is necessary given the declining membership trends in organized dentistry, with the ADA’s market share approaching 50%. The AADEJ, operating with limited resources, concentrates on fundamental, mission-based services that benefit the collective community of dental editors and journalists. These core services include focused continuing education necessary to earn the Certified Dental Editor credential and guidance on ethical issues, such as editor autonomy and the emerging presence of AI. By focusing on essential needs, the AADEJ avoids trying to be "all things to all people" and relies on members to promote its collective vision to prospective members.
Recommended Citation
Smiley, Christopher J.
(2025)
"What’s in it for us? Tell a Colleague,"
AADEJ - The Communicator: Vol. 11:
Iss.
3, Article 3.
Available at:
https://commons.ada.org/aadej-communicator/vol11/iss3/3