Page 6 - NYSAGD GP Fall 2018

COMMITMENT TO LIFELONG LEARNING AND

SERVICE CONTINUES

James R. Keenan, DDS, MS, MAGD, LLSR

Twenty years ago when I began dental school, my main goal was to successfully
complete four years of study to become a dentist and to embark on a lengthy and
productive career in the dental profession. Looking back, there have been so many
experiences that I would never have envisioned at that time. The majority of my
experiences have revolved around the Academy of General Dentistry and I am so
grateful to the AGD for enabling me to become the person and general dentist that
I am today.

What began as a general dentist who simply was an AGD member has developed
into a dentist who has received Fellowship (2008) and Mastership (2009) awards
along with two Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition award (2012 and 2018). The LLSR is not only
reflective of my desire and commitment to lifelong learning, but also to serve organized dentistry. I am a
board member and a past president of the NYSAGD, where I can impact members of our constituent. I
also serve as a board member of the AGD Foundation, whose goals are to promote oral cancer awareness
and prevention at our annual meeting venues and to many communities through the distribution of grant
awards.

I also take pride in being involved with non-AGD organizations in serving the community. These include
collaborating with the Second District Dental Society and New York County Dental Society in conducting
health screenings at the Greater New York Dental Meeting; with Queens County Dental Society for oral
cancer screenings at CitiField; with Nassau County Dental Society for their “Give Kids A Smile” pro-
grams; and with the New York State Dental Foundation for their Mission of Mercy in 2014.

While I certainly intend on continuing to be a lifelong learner and to serve organized dentistry and to give
back to the community, I would like to have an influence on our younger dental colleagues to pursue a
similar path. Having been a full time faculty member at NYU College of Dentistry over the last three years
has presented an opportunity for me to share my knowledge and experiences that I have gained from my
involvement in the AGD with my students.

The personal achievement of being a recipient of the LLSR Award for a second time is truly an honor.
The greatest satisfaction would be to witness a growth in the Academy along with active participation in
continuing education, leadership, and community service among all members, but especially our youngest
colleagues.

Unfortunately, beyond dental school and residency, the concept of “mentoring” is virtually non-existent.
Based upon my experience, the AGD, my fellow members, CE programs, leadership development pro-
grams, networking opportunities, and community focused programs have served as my “mentor”. I feel
confident that they will serve as one for others as well. I hope that my achievements serve as a motivator
for others and that I will witness an increase in Fellows, Masters, and Lifelong Learners at upcoming con-
vocations.

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