Dr. James A. Englander
It is exciting for me to view the growth of the PIERRE FAUCHARD ACADEMY as a truly international honors and service arm of the dental profession.
As I have noted before, the growth of the Latin America Sections has become a phenomenon. Region 7 Trustee Ernesto Acuna and Section Chairs Antonieta Swanson of Ecuador and Gilberto Hernostroza of Peru have led the way, getting out the message of Fellowship in the Academy. Last January, in conjunction with the 26th Sao Paulo International Dental Congress, Trustee Acuna organized the first PFA Latin American academic and scientific meeting. Represented at this historic event were PFA Section Chairs and Fellows from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Italy, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and the United States.
In cooperation with the government of India, the India Dental Association, the Dental Council of India and with past President William Winspear participating, the Academy helped inaugurate a national workshop for the accreditation of continuing dental education. The India Section of PFA continues to be a very active component, keeping their Fellows well-informed through the efforts of Chief Editor Dr. V. P. Jalili and Scientific Editor Dr. S. S. Sidhu, publishing an outstanding dental journal for more than 21 years.
The Philippines Section continues to move forward, installing Dr. Hermogenes Villareal as Chairman, at their Midyear Meeting and Christmas Fellowship in December. Immediate past Chairman Dr. Diampo Lim, Dean of the dental school, has worked tirelessly, along with Trustee Mamoru Sakuda, to make the Philippines Section a leader in professional growth and high ethical standards, promoting and developing better oral health through education. Their Community Outreach Program cares for more than 260 day care students in and around Manila.
Most recently, through the enthusiastic efforts of Trustee Barry Dolman and Ontario Section Chair Aldo Boccia, a memorable gala installation and awards program was held in Toronto. Over 45 new Canadian Fellows were inducted and the Canada Section continues to flourish. CDA past Presidents and Fellows, Drs. Bernard Dolansky and James Brookfield were honored with the Distinguished Service Award for significant contributions they have made to the dental profession. In addition, Acting Executive Director of the Canadian Dental Association, Joel Neal was made an Honorary Fellow.
Trustee Hubert Ouvrard, representing Region 1, has been very busy organizing European induction ceremonies and awards presentations scheduled for the France Section and the Switzerland Section in late June and early July. Outstanding European leaders in the field of dentistry will be recognized and new Fellows will be inducted at this time.
With so much positive activity happening globally, we can all feel the energy being generated throughout the Academy. PIERRE FAUCHARD ACADEMY meets the criteria of being a truly international organization.
President