The Explorer Winter 2018 Explorer_Fall_2018 | Page 3

It is time for my term as President of LADS to come to an end, but I would be remiss if I didn't let everyone know how much I have enjoyed my year. There are too many individuals to thank, so please accept this as my heartfelt appreciation for everyone's support and work over the last 12 months. “To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” - Winston Churchill While change naturally interrupts routines, it’s through patience that results are achieved. Through the collaborative efforts of great leaders in LADS, we have attained many objectives and continue to grow. To reflect on some of our accomplishments this year: • Our Pre-Dental Prep Program this year has been the most successful one. Not only did we have an increased number of students, but the execution of the program was the most involved and organized compared to previous years. • Thanks to the input and support of you (the members), our services continue to expand and grow. • One of the highlights of my summer was a trip to South Korea that was arranged by LADS President Elect, Dr. Pilseong Kim. In this trip Dr. Kim and I along with two of LADS Past Presidents, Dr. Sonia Molina and Dr. Brian Hong had an opportunity to attend the Seoul Dental Society Expo (Sidex 2018). We had a chance to meet the leaders and representatives from 17 other countries. I was honored to be part of impressive Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the opening of the Expo. During this trip, The President of Seoul Dental Society and I, signed an MOU (memorandum of Understanding) between the two societies. The purpose was to establish a collaborative relationship by promoting academic exchange for mutual improvement. We hope to make these connections Nationally and Los Angeles Dental Society Explorer PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE By Fariba Kalantari, DDS Internationally among our colleagues. I’d like to thank all the task forces and committee members that worked so hard to accomplish these goals. Finally, to the members, I say "thank you". The strength of this Society is you. If you want LADS to continue to be relevant and to have a voice, it is up to you to make sure you actively participate and encourage others to do so as well. The choice is yours. There is so much happening in our community today. Together we can achieve the extraordinary. As I am getting ready to pass the baton to the caring hands of LADS next president, Dr. Pilseong Kim, know that you are in for a treat. I hope you join me on October 27th, for the Installation and Volunteer appreciation Gala to welcome Dr. Kim and the Officers. It's been an honor of my life to be your President. I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity you have given me to serve you. 䡲