2022

NADP Honors 13 Members with Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Award

In celebration of outstanding volunteer achievements, the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP) is honoring 13 individuals with the Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Awards during CONVERGE 2022, Sept. 19-22 in St. Louis. The award recognizes annual volunteer contributions necessary for the association to accomplish its mission to improve consumer access to affordable, quality dental care through advocacy, research, and the promotion of dental benefits.

Following is a list of 2022 Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Award recipients and their contributions to NADP volunteer groups.

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Seema Anandan, Humana
Membership WorkGroup

The Membership WorkGroup is recognizing Seema for her keen analytical skills in working with the Budget Committee on membership dues.

Seema is currently serving as vice president of specialty growth strategy at Humana, where she has been focused on accelerating growth in the group business segment by delivering market-leading offerings that achieve value through the network, pricing, key capabilities and product activations. Her key responsibilities include strategy, execution and delivery of proven product solutions and client services, that leverage data and analytics. In addition, she oversees improving member experiences in healthcare and enabling disruptive, digital models and technology. Prior to joining Humana Inc. in 2021, Seema held several key roles in Guardian, including vice president of government product strategy and analytics, business transformation leader and head of integration.

Seema holds a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Pace University, Lubins Shool of Business, NY; a Master of Computer Applications from S.N.D.T. University, India; and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Bombay, India.

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Carl Brody , go2dental/Dentistat
Education Commission

The Education Commission is honoring Carl for spearheading a sub-group to develop the CONVERGE educational sessions on timely topics.

Carl began his career in 1992 at MetLife’s New York sales office as a group sales trainee and representative. Carl was promoted to Manager of Group Sales Training in 1995 and was invited to join MetLife Dental to lead communication and product development in 1997.

Over the next 22 years, Carl held a variety of roles at MetLife. He led Institutional Sales Training and National Accounts Customer Growth Strategy development, but Carl arguably made his biggest impact as a MetLife Dental and Vision Sales Director.

As Sales Director, Carl facilitated profitable growth and business retention. To accomplish this, Carl spent vast amounts of time in-market across the U.S., meeting with consultants, prospects, and customers of all sizes. In doing so, Carl built a deep understanding of marketplace dynamics. He shared his insights to provide guidance on product innovation, and to empower sales, marketing, underwriting and service associates to collaborate and differentiate more effectively.

In 2019, Carl left MetLife to join Dentistat and go2dental, where he currently serves as vice president of Strategy and Client Engagement. Carl collaborates closely with clients to ensure “they derive optimal value and market differentiation from our capabilities.”

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Dr. Jeffrey Chaffin, Delta Dental IA
Oral Health Review Task Force – a CAP & Communications WG Initiative

The Oral Health Report Review Task Force applauds Jeff’s efforts in securing presenters for the Oral Health Report webinar and service on the task force.

Jeff is an experienced senior-level dental benefits executive and is currently the chief dental officer for Delta Dental of Iowa. His responsibilities include all aspects of the development and management of the dental network with a focus on network innovation and provider quality. He is the primary liaison with dental providers and manages the scientific and clinical aspects of policy related to the administration of oral health care benefits.

Dr. Chaffin completed a 21-year Army career with his last assignment serving as the dental chief for the TRICARE Management Activity. In that role, he was responsible for administering the Department of Defense’s dental insurance programs worldwide. He served as the Consultant for Dentistry to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs and as the Consultant to the Army Surgeon General for Dental Public Health.

Jeff was a Distinguished Military Graduate from the University of Tampa in 1988 and received a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Nebraska in 1992, a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Michigan in 2000, a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2006, and a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Baylor University in 2006. He completed a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at Fort Sill, Oklahoma in 1993.

Dr. Chaffin is a Diplomat of the American Board of Dental Public Health, a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, and a Fellow of the International College of Dentistry. He was an Associate Section Editor of the recently released Oral Health in America report from NIDCR. He currently serves on the boards of the Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation, the American Institute of Dental Public Health and the Medicaid-CHIP State Dental Association (MSDA).

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Dr. Mary Lee Conicella, Aetna
Oral Health Review Task Force – a CAP & Communications WG Initiative

The Oral Health Report Review Task Force is praising Mary Lee for presenting key updates on the oral health report Webinar and service on the review task force.

Dr. Mary Lee Conicella is Aetna’s chief dental officer and oversees dental clinical initiatives, policies, and claim reviews. She is a member of Aetna’s Medical Affairs Team, focused on driving clinical quality, member engagement, health equity, and improved outcomes. She has published numerous articles on dental care's impact on holistic health and was instrumental in creating Aetna's groundbreaking Dental-Medical Integration program. These efforts received global recognition in the National Institutes of Health report: “Oral Health in America: Advances and Challenges.” Dr. Conicella received her DMD from Temple University School of Dentistry and achieved Fellowship status in the Academy of General Dentistry during her private practice. She spent many years on the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine faculty and sits on the NYU College of Dentistry Dean’s Strategic Advisory Council. Mary Lee has been a volunteer with NADP since 2006 and is currently serving her second term as a member of the NADP Board of Directors.

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Dr. Mark Jurkovich, HealthPartners
Diagnostic Terminology SWG (DT SWG)

The DT SWG is commending Mark for leadership of the Clinical SWG.

Mark is a senior fellow at the HealthPartners Institute. He is very active in the analysis and development of diagnostic terminology and information exchange in dentistry and the tools necessary to make them more effective. He currently leads the International Health Terminology Standards and Development Organization’s (IHTSDO) Dentistry Clinical Reference Group (CRG). The CRG provides expertise in the development of SNOMED CT terminology related to dental care. He is a member of the Standards Committee on Dental Informatics (SCDI) . He serves on the State of Minnesota Department of Health E-Health Advisory Committee and Health Information Exchange Oversight Committee.

Dr. Jurkovich is also the recipient of the 2022 Don Mayes Leadership Award. Read more about him in a related article in this newsletter.

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Jaclyn Kertzman, Principal
Research Commission

The Research Commission is honoring Jacki for her steadfast contributions to the Research Commission's industry reports. She has been instrumental in improving the quality and value of the data NADP has provided to members and the other stakeholders.

Jaclyn Kertzman is an actuary supporting group benefits pricing for Principal Financial Group in Des Moines, IA. She currently supports pricing dental, vision, and life products as well as supporting dental networks. Prior to joining the group benefits pricing team, she had responsibility over Individual Life in-force pricing. She currently serves on the NADP Research Commission as well as volunteering with the Society of Actuaries.

Jaclyn holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Actuarial Science from Drake University, is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries, and is a member of the American Academy of Actuaries.

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Kathy Larkin, DenteMax
Government Relations WorkGroup (GRW)

The Government Relations WorkGroup is recognizing Kathy for her work on the Washington Rate Filing SWG and leadership in the GRW bill analysis pilot group.

Kathy has more than 30 years of legal and regulatory experience, including HMO, Medicare, Medicaid and dental network compliance. In her current role, Kathy oversees regulatory compliance for the Dearborn National companies, including Dental Network of America and DenteMax. She also serves as an Ethics Ambassador and Divisional Privacy Officer for the Dearborn National enterprise.

Kathy holds a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Communications and a minor in Religious Studies from Rochester College. She also has a Master of Science and Administration with a concentration in Leadership from Central Michigan University. Kathy’s avocational pursuits include volunteer work for veterans' charities, mentoring young people at local youth homes, and home improvement.

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Lauren Mackela, Dearborn Group
Government Relations WorkGroup (GRW)

The Government Relations WorkGroup is praising Lauren Mackela for leadership in the GRW bill analysis pilot group.

Lauren is the regulatory consultant for Dearborn Group and its affiliated entities, including DenteMax and Dental Network of America. Since joining Dearborn Group in 2018, she has taken on responsibility for dental regulatory compliance, oversight, and advocacy in all 50 states. Prior to joining Dearborn Group, she was employed as a research attorney in private practice.

Lauren holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Marquette University and a Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School. She is a licensed attorney, a member of the State Bar of Michigan, and has earned the Managed Healthcare Professional (MHP) designation.

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Don Polite, SKYGEN
Membership WG

Membership is honoring Don for offering his marketing expertise and perspective to the Budget Committee regarding dues.

Don currently serves as a chief marketing officer at SKYGEN.  Prior to joining SKYGEN, he served as vice president, Brand and Corporate Marketing for Johnson Controls.  Don also held positions of increasing responsibility in marketing for Warner Bros. Discovery, NBC Universal, Abbot & Disney.  He received his undergraduate degree at Northwestern University in 1990 and has an MBA in Marketing from Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University in 1996.  He serves on the Board of Directors with Silver Spring Neighborhood Center, which serves Milwaukee’s northwest community.

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James Slotnick, SunLife
Commission on Advocacy Policy

The Commission on Advocacy Policy recognizes James Slotnick for his leadership on issues in Massachusetts and Maine, as well as at the federal level.

As Sun Life head of government relations, James represents the company’s US interests to elected officials and regulators, focusing on employee benefits, healthcare and tax policy. Through his work, Sun Life has successfully championed several initiatives, ranging from expanding access to Paid Family Medical Leave to providing added flexibility to the Paycheck Protection Program.

James has spent nearly his entire career at Sun Life, joining in 2002 after graduating from college. Over the years he has held several roles in Distribution, Group Benefits and Legal. In 2017 he became head of government relations.

He holds a bachelor’s degree from Saint Anselm College, an MBA from Suffolk University’s Sawyer School of Management, and a JD from Suffolk University School of Law. He is an active member of the Massachusetts Bar.

In 2021, James was named both a Top Lobbyist by The Hill and a Top 100 Lobbyist by the National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics.

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Kristen Smith
Operations WG

The NADP Terminology, Standards and Transactions department, specifically the EDI WorkGroup, recognize Kristen for her leadership of the Operations WG and service as a subject-matter expert on Delegated Credentialing, Provider Directory Validation and Network Leasing. Kristen has been part of the Operations WG for over 10 years. Her expertise makes the Operations WG thrive and meet the WG goals.

Kristen S. Smith is the director, of Dental Network Operations at United Concordia.  She has overall leadership responsibility for all credentialing, delegated credentialing, provider data management and support functions.

Kristen has over 33 years of clinical and administrative dental experience.  She has worked for United Concordia for 31 years where she has held positions in professional relations, claims operations and audit, provider data management, quality/process improvement and project management. Prior to United Concordia she worked as a dental office manager and clinical dental assistant.  Kristen has volunteered for NADP on the Operations Workgroup for 8 years and has been the chair for the group for the past 2 years.

Kristen has her Bachelor of Science from East Stroudsburg University, a PA Teaching Certificate.

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Chuck Stewart, Dental Advisors
Membership WG

Membership applauds Chuck’s continued service as an outstanding ambassador for NADP in his highly successful recruitment efforts.

Chuck is the founder, president, and CEO of DentalAdvisors, a dental consulting firm. Chuck and his team apply a unique combination of both provider and carrier experience to help Dental Plans, dental support organizations (DSOs), and individual dental practices solve challenges they face in their respective markets.

Previously, Chuck served as director, Business Development for Smile Brands, one of the nation’s largest DSOs. Chuck oversaw plan relations, a commercial sales team, and sales for an in-house dental plan.

Chuck earned a BSc and MBA from Arizona State University.

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Dr. Linda Vidone, Delta Dental Massachusetts
Codes SWG

Codes SWG recognizes Dr. Linda Vidone for leadership of Diagnostic Terminology SWG.

Linda Vidone, DMD, is the chief clinical officer, and vice president of Clinical Management at Delta Dental of Massachusetts (DDMA). She has 20 years of dental experience in private practice, as dental school faculty, and in the dental benefits industry. She is a board-certified dental consultant and is responsible for all clinical programs at DDMA, which include dental/medical integration, utilization review, and management, oral health analytics, benefit criteria, clinical and contractual appeal review, as well as sets standards for quality care confirming DDMA maintains a quality network of providers. She continuously stays abreast of innovations in oral health ensuring that DDMA continues to enhance and provide the best dental benefits to its customers.

Beyond her work with DDMA she currently serves as past president and chair of the Certification Committee for the American Association of Dental Consultants. She is a member of all three National Association of Dental Plans Terminology workgroups (chairperson of Diagnostic Terminology), a voting member of the American Dental Association’s Code Maintenance Committee, where she represents American Health Insurance Plans, and a voting member for the Dental Quality Alliance as well as serving on their educational committee. She is considered an expert in Dental Coding and is the author of the Implant Chapter in the ADAs CDT Coding companion manual.

Dr. Vidone earned all her Dental degrees from Boston University School of Dental Medicine including a Doctor of Dental Medicine as well as specialty degrees in Periodontology and Prosthodontics. She maintains a private practice in Periodontology in Brookline, Massachusetts.

2021

NADP Honors 8 Members with Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Award

In celebration of outstanding volunteer achievements, the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP) will honor eight individuals with the Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Awards during CONVERGE 2021. The award recognizes annual volunteer contributions necessary for the association to accomplish its mission to promote and advance the dental benefits industry and improve consumer access to affordable, quality dental care.

“Because of the leadership of our volunteers, NADP is the respected industry leader and voice of the dental benefits industry,” said Executive Director Eme Augustini. “NADP continues to thrive because of our volunteers who give their time, talent, and expertise to advance our industry. We are grateful for their contributions and commitment to NADP.”

Following is a list of 2021 Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Award recipients and their contributions to NADP volunteer groups.

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Theresa Bacon, Aspen Dental Management
Operations WorkGroup

As an active member of the Operations WG, Theresa is always involved in initiatives and brings so much value to the provider directory and credentialing projects.

Theresa joined Aspen Dental Management Inc. (ADMI) in 2012 as the manager carrier relations and has served as director of insurance operations since March 2019. Leading provider credentialing and plan enrollment for more than 900 Aspen Dental branded practices in 44 States. Theresa currently serves as the chair of the DSO Advisory Council and has been a member of the NADP Operations and Codes Workgroups since 2015. Past volunteer experience includes Provider Directory Validation, CAQH and Delegated Credentialing Sub-WorkGroups.

With more than 20 years in the dental industry, prior professional experience includes leadership roles at Coast Dental Services and roles with general dentistry and endodontic private practices.

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Carl Brody, Dentistat and go2dental
Communications WorkGroup and Education Commission

The Communications WorkGroup is recognizing Carl for his energetic engagement on several projects and proactively providing helpful research and information. The Education Commission is praising Carl for his tremendous efforts in developing and delivering the Diversity, Equality and Inclusion session for Leadership Conference and his work in guiding the speaker on how to connect with NADP’s audience.

Carl began his career in 1992 at MetLife’s New York sales office as a group sales trainee and representative. Carl was promoted to manager of group sales training in 1995 and was invited to join MetLife Dental to lead communication and product development in 1997. Over the next 22 years, Carl held a variety of roles at MetLife. He led institutional sales training and national accounts customer growth strategy development, but Carl arguably made his biggest impact as a MetLife Dental and Vision sales director.

As sales director, Carl facilitated profitable growth and business retention. To accomplish this, Carl spent vast amounts of time in-market across the U.S., meeting with consultants, prospects, and customers of all sizes. In doing so, Carl built a deep understanding of marketplace dynamics. He shared his insights to provide guidance on product innovation, and to empower sales, marketing, underwriting and service associates to collaborate and differentiate more effectively.

In 2019, Carl left MetLife to join Dentistat and go2dental, where he currently serves as Vice President of Strategy and Client Engagement. Carl collaborates closely with clients to ensure “they derive optimal value and market differentiation from our capabilities.”

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Michael Ferrera, Solstice Benefits
Research Commission

Michael is receiving the Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Award for the creativity he brings to the Research Commission and his enthusiasm in supporting NADPs research activities.

Michael Ferrera, Solstice’s director of project management and claims, oversees partnership and group implementations and process improvement initiatives and supervises a team of project managers, as well as Solstice’s claims team. He and his team define and consult on measurement strategies, tools, scorecards and surveys across the organization, as well as provide measurement and cost savings support (development, reporting, validation and improvement) for service management. In addition, he devises and approves proposed project designs to ensure alignment with Solstice standards and business strategy. Michael ensures compliance with the company's objectives, goals and timeframes, and maintaining standards for claims metrics. Michael joined Solstice in August 2008 as a credentialing administrator and moved through the ranks. He is Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certified.

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Jon Jennings, Delta Dental of Missouri
Membership WorkGroup

The Membership WorkGroup is honoring Jon for serving as an engaged Delta Dental voice by offering key insights and suggestions.

Jon Jennings is the chief actuary and vice president of underwriting and project management at Delta Dental of Missouri. He joined the organization in 2016, and currently directs all aspects of underwriting, actuarial, client reporting and project management.

Jon has more than 15 years of experience in the dental and vision benefits industry. He previously served in a variety of underwriting and actuarial roles at Ameritas in Lincoln, Nebraska, including as director and assistant actuary for group business with a focus on pricing, reserving and growing strategic partnerships.

Mr. Jennings is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and a Member of the American Academy of Actuaries. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in physics from Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota

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Bernard LaPine, Highmark
Government Relations WorkGroup (GRW)

The GRW is celebrating Bernard’s involvement in legislative and regulatory efforts in California.

Bernard the director of regulatory and legislative affairs for Highmark Inc. He joined Highmark in 2014 and is responsible for legislative affairs activities for Highmark’s dental subsidiary, United Concordia Dental, and for its stop loss and vision subsidiary, HM Insurance Group. Bernard also manages Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP and commercial compliance programs for United Concordia Dental.

Bernard has worked in the health insurance industry for more than 25 years serving in a variety of regulatory, compliance and legislative roles. He has experience providing regulatory and legislative support for full-service commercial, Medicare and Medicaid plans with operations in multiple states, including Aetna, Coventry Health Care and Mid-Atlantic Medical Services.

Bernard currently serves on the NADPac Committee, the NADP Government Relations Workgroup, the NADP Government Funded Workgroup and the California Association of Dental Plans Legislative and Regulatory Committee. Bernard also participates in several other insurance related associations including the Maryland Alliance, the Self-insurance Institute of America, and AHIP.

Bernard graduated from Gettysburg College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and received his Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University Thomas Cooley Law School. He is also a licensed attorney and a member of the State Bar of Pennsylvania.

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Amy Miller, BlueCross BlueShield of SC
Research Commission

The Research Commission is praising Amy for her steadfast and consistent support of Research Commission projects.

Amy Miller currently serves as the Dental Product Sales Director at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina focused on local and national large group accounts. In her role, she is responsible for directing and leading the development, implementation and management of product design/strategy, network development and sales leadership for dental products/services. Her expertise helps maintain a competitive advantage and ensure that group dental products, are at or exceeding industry standards.

Prior to joining BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina in 2018, Amy held dental and behavioral health network management positions at BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee for 15 years. Amy earned a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management, magna cum laude from Bryan College and holds a Yellow Belt designation with Six Sigma and Lean Processing.

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James Mullen, Delta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates
Government Relations WorkGroup (GRW)

The GRW applauds James for being instrumental in addressing Utah legislation regarding downcoding and network leasing as well as offering guidance on California issues.

James Mullen is the managing executive of public & government affairs for Delta Dental of California and its affiliated companies.

Since joining Delta Dental in 2001, James has assumed responsibility for the company’s legal and regulatory advocacy and compliance activities in 15 states plus the District of Columbia, including a particular focus on the positioning of dental plans under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Prior to joining Delta Dental, he served in various regulatory and compliance capacities for Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company at their home office in Novato, CA.

In addition to holding a bachelor’s degree in History from San Francisco State University, James has earned the Chartered Property & Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) and Managed Healthcare Professional (MHP) designations. He also serves on the Public Policy Committee for the Delta Dental Plans Association (DDPA), the Government Relations Workgroup for the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP) and is a past member of the Plan Management Advisory Committee for Covered California.

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Christina Tuller
Commission on Advocacy Policy (CAP)

CAP is recognizing Christina for her knowledge and insight on Medicare.

Christina DelVecchio Tuller currently serves as the head of product for Cigna's dental and vision solutions.  She is responsible for the strategy, development and management of dental and vision solutions for Cigna’s 17M + dental and vision customers.  A product leader with over 20 years of experience in all aspects of product and program management, she is focused on bringing affordable quality oral and optical healthcare solutions to consumers, that are simple to understand and use.  Prior to Cigna, Christina helped Guardian transform its dental product portfolio to be ACA complaint and also spent early years in her career working for Allstate. Christina has been a proud member of NADP since 2010 serving on the Education, GRW and  CAP committees.  She is an advocate for virtual employment and champion for improving work/life balance.  She holds an MBA and MS of Finance from Drexel’s LeBow School of Business and an undergraduate degree in Economics from Vanderbilt University. She serves on various committees with Bucks County Chapter of the American Red Cross, Forum of Executive Women, The Union League of Philadelphia, Vanderbilt Alumni Association, and the Lawrenceville Alumni Association. Christina resides in the suburbs of Philadelphia with her husband and 2 children

2020

Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Awards

NADP Honors 11 Individuals with Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Award

In celebration of outstanding volunteer achievements, the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP) is honoring 11 individuals with the Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Awards featured during Virtual CONVERGE 2020, Sept. 21-Oct 1. The award recognizes annual volunteer contributions necessary for the association to accomplish its mission to promote and advance the dental benefits industry and improve consumer access to affordable, quality dental care.

“Because of the leadership of our volunteers, NADP is the respected industry leader and voice of the dental benefits industry,” said Executive Director Eme Augustini. “In this unprecedented year, NADP continues to thrive because of our volunteers who give their time, talent, and expertise to advance our industry. We are grateful for their contributions and commitment to NADP.”

Following is a list of 2020 Evelyn Ireland Volunteer Award recipients and their contributions to NADP volunteer groups.

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Board of Directors
Bruce Walker, Nippon Life

The Board of Directors is honoring Bruce for providing continued expertise and service on the Audit Committee.

Bruce is currently senior vice president, chief financial Officer, chief risk officer, and corporate secretary at Nippon Life Insurance Company of America. He has more than 30 years of finance and insurance industry experience. Prior to joining Nippon Life, he worked for Guardian Life Insurance Company as chief accountant, Group Insurance. Before that, he was senior vice president and chief financial Officer at Swiss Re Life and Health Canada and served as head of Financial Services at Swiss Re America Holding Corporation.  Earlier in his career, Bruce worked in the Financial Institution Practice of KPMG in Canada and Australia. He is a US Certified Public Accountant and a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Professional Accountant in Canada. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the Goodman School of Business at Brock University in Ontario, Canada.  Bruce has been the Chairman of NADP’s Audit committee since 2009.

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Commission on Advocacy Policy (CAP)
Suzanne Heckenlaible, Delta Dental of Iowa

CAP recognizes Suzanne for cultivating and maintaining relationships on the Hill with members of key committees and for her persistent advocacy on the issue of decoupling and independent purchase of dental benefits on public health insurance Marketplaces.

Suzanne Heckenlaible is Vice President Public Affairs and the Executive Director of the Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation. In her role as Vice President, Suzanne oversees Delta Dental’s Community Impact Program, government relations, and community relations. With the formation of the Foundation in 2007, Suzanne’s role as Executive Director is to lead all aspects of the Foundation, whose mission is to strengthen and transform the health and smiles of all Iowans. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) designated supporting organization to Delta Dental of Iowa.

Prior to joining Delta Dental in 2006, Suzanne’s experience included more than 14 years as al obbyist/administrator for the March of Dimes.

Suzanne has a bachelor’s degree from Augustana College (Rock Island, IL) and master’s in Public Administration from Drake University. She is also a graduate of the Greater DesMoines Partnership Leadership Institute. She currently serves as a Co-Chair for a national Funders Oral Health Policy Group; Health Cabinet Chair and Board Director for the United Way of Central Iowa, and a Commissioner serving as Vice-Chair for the Iowa Department on Aging. She serves on the following committees: Delta Dental Plans Association Public Policy Committee; National Association of Dental Plans Commission on Advocacy Policy, Government Programs & PAC; Lifelong Smiles Coalition Public Policy & Reimbursement committee; Iowa Council of Foundations Public Policy Committee; Iowa Healthiest State Foundation Sub-Committee and the Iowa Donated Dental Services Advisory Group. Her previous leadership roles include Dental Health Chair of the Healthiest State Initiative; Chair, Vice-Chair, and Board member for the Iowa Council on Foundations; Chair for the Iowa Women Lead Change (IWLC) Metro Women Connect Board; and Chair of The Greater Des Moines Partnership Government Policy Council.

Suzanne was recognized as a “FORTY under 40” award recipient in 2008 from the Des Moines Business Record and received a “Star” Award from the National Association of Dental Plans for her work on the Government Relations Commission in 2013 and for her work on the Commission on Advocacy Policy in 2018 and 2020.

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Crystal McElroy, MetLife

CAP celebrates Crystal’s exceptional effort to coordinate and lead the NADP and CADP response to legislative proposals in California; Crystal has played an instrumental role in drafting alternatives which take all carriers’ business operations into consideration.

Crystal McElroy is the assistant vice president over supplemental health product compliance and regulatory at Metropolitan Life Insurance Company in Irvine, CA. She currently oversees all compliance and regulatory issues as it relates to MetLife’s PPO and DHMO Dental, Vision, Accident & Health, and Health Spending & Savings Account business. Crystal currently is the vice chair of the NADP Commission on Advocacy Policy and volunteers on the NADP Government Relations Workgroup.  She also serves as the co- chair of the CADP Legislative and Regulatory Committee and is the Secretary/Treasurer on the CADP Board of Directors.

Prior to joining MetLife in October 2013, she served as a Senior Attorney with the California Department of Managed Health Care in the Office of Plan Licensing for seven years. She was responsible for reviewing dental plan and health plan licensing documents as it relates to plan benefits, disclosure documents, networks, and mergers and acquisitions. Crystal graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles, with a major in Biochemistry and a minor in Political Science in 2003 and obtained her Juris Doctor from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in 2006.

She currently resides in Irvine, CA with her husband, twin nine-year old daughters, and quarantine puppy, Pepper.

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Communications WorkGroup (WG)
Brooke Ellis, Solstice

The Communications WorkGroup praises Brooke for her timely, insightful engagement on multiple volunteer projects.

Brooke Ellis, director of Strategic Sales Communications at Solstice, oversees the company’s sales proposal/RFP team. Passionate about consumer literacy, Brooke strives to make insurance and health-related topics simple and accessible for all audiences. Her tenure at Solstice has included restructuring RFP team roles and processes, which contributed to increases in the company’s RFP win rate and response volume - the latter rising more than 60% from 2018 to 2019.

Brooke has nearly 15 years of marketing communications experience in the insurance, legal, news, and software industries, including a past role at Solstice, in which she focused on B2B and B2C communications, social media and email lead generation, and increasing web traffic through SEO tactics. She led the team to a first-place creative advertising award from Facebook for A/B testing in 2018.

Brooke is a volunteer with the NADP Communications WorkGroup, for which she currently serves as vice chair. She previously served as co-chair of the 2018 national ClearMark Awards, which recognizes excellence in plain language.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations with an outside concentration in political science from the University of Florida.

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Beth Rutherford, United Concordia Dental

The Communications WorkGroup commends Beth for her contributions to development of press contacts and a media kit.

Beth Rutherford, director, Integrated Communications, is responsible for executive, corporate, crisis and employee communications, as well as public and media relations, at United Concordia Dental. She joined the company in 2009 and held numerous positions in marketing and communications before moving into her current role. Prior to joining United Concordia, Beth worked for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and a number of nonprofit organizations, including a health system and charity, in a variety of media, communications and marketing roles. Her nonprofit work has earned her national and local recognition, including two Telly awards. Beth is accredited in public relations from the Public Relations Society of America, holds a Master of Science degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from West Virginia University and a Bachelor of Arts in both Journalism and Economics from the Pennsylvania State University.

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Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) WorkGroup
Art Schoen, Aspen Dental Management

The EDI WorkGroup recognizes Art for his active participation in the workgroup and knowledge of EDI transactions. In addition, they are praising him for leadership as part of the DSO Advisory Council and serving as liaison between these two groups on EDI challenges.

Art currently serves as the Vice President of Insurance Operations and Revenue Cycle for Aspen Dental Management, Inc. (ADMI).  ADMI is a dental support organization that provides non-clinical business support services to over 800 independently owned and operated Aspen Dental-branded practices in 41 states.

His business focus is on improving the efficiency and cost effectiveness of dental transactions so that dentists and insurance carriers can better focus on patients, subscribers, and employer groups.

Art started his career in insurance with a subsidiary of Anthem focusing on claims processing, file set-up, and system migration.   He served as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps and holds an MBA in Healthcare from Binghamton University and a BA in History and MS in Education from Canisius College.  Art is currently the Chair of the National Dental EDI Council (NDEDIC) and works with NADP on the EDI, DSO and Government Relations Work Groups.

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Government Relations WG (GRW)
Mike Trebold, Ameritas

GRW is honoring Mike for his contributions to analysis of legislative issues and leadership in key issues in Nebraska.

Mike Trebold is a compliance manager for the Group Division of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp, which he joined in 2014.  His responsibilities include advocacy as well as management of regulatory issues, including provider network compliance and regulatory reporting.  Trebold earned a B.S.B.A. from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln and a J.D. from the University of Nebraska College of Law.  He is vice chair of the Government Relations Workgroup of the National Association of Dental Plans.

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Gary Pickard, Pacific Dental Services

GRW commends Gary for his contributions to discussions on strategic planning and proactive advocacy.

For more than two decades Gary Pickard has been connecting people and ideas, dedicating his life to advocating for the dental industry and elevating the profession.

Gary has focused his attention on legislative affairs for the past seven years and in that time, he has helped two bills become law, one in Washington State and one in Maryland. He has spoken to countless legislators that include attorneys general, senators, governors, and has even met the vice president of the United States. He has testified in front of state dental boards and legislative committees addressing access to care issues, explaining alternative business models, urging that Congress add medically-necessary dental coverage to Medicare, and educating policy makers on the value of dentistry and good oral health.

He has helped Pacific Dental Services (PDS) become one of the largest and most successful Dental Support Organizations (DSO) in the world, a leader in modern dentistry, moving the needle on the Mouth-Body Connection, supporting almost 4,000 oral healthcare professionals, approaching 1,000 dental practices across 22 states.

Gary currently serves as PDS’s senior director of Government and Industry Affairs. He is a proud veteran of the United States Navy. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University. Gary also serves as an Advisory Board member for the Pacific Dental Services Foundation. A foundation dedicated to creating opportunities to serve through improving oral healthcare locally, nationally and internationally. He is an editorial board member for Group Dentistry Now, the dental industry’s go-to place for DSOs and a member of the Board of Advisors of XP Health, a health tech startup introducing a new kind of vision benefit for employees.

He has been an NADP member since 2004, annual participant in Advocacy in Action, and a longtime Government Relations Workgroup member.

Brian Correia Headshot

Membership WG
Brian Correria, Solstice Benefits

The Membership WorkGroup applauds Brian for providing insight regarding NADP benefits and serving as a panelist for the Membership presentation at Leadership Conference.

As Solstice’s vice president of Sales and Marketing, Brian Correia drives and oversees all national insurance sales and marketing initiatives and strategic partnerships in the commercial and public sectors, leading a team of 26 employees.

Under Brian’s tenure, Solstice experienced triple-digit revenue growth, including a 3,000% increase in individual consumer sales within a five-year period. Brian is a leader in Solstice’s nationwide expansion to double its state footprint with dental products in 12 markets by the end of 2020.

A frequent industry speaker and continuing education instructor, Brian earned his master’s degree in public administration from Baruch College. He volunteers in the National Association of Dental Plans Membership and Government Relations WorkGroups and is a member of the National Association of Health Underwriters. Brian is also an active member with Manhattan Community Board 8 and volunteers at the ALS Society of Greater New York.

Sue Wright headshot

Sue Wright, Lincoln Financial Group

The Membership WorkGroup applauds Sue for providing insight regarding NADP benefits and serving as a panelist for the Membership presentation at Leadership Conference.

Over the span of 35 years in the insurance industry, Sue Wright has accumulated more than 25 years of experience working in the dental insurance industry. For the past 13 years, she has been concentrated solely on Dental products and network management, expanding to include Vision experience in 2012.  In her current position as assistance vice president, Dental and Vision Product Solutions at Lincoln Financial Group, Sue has a broad range of organizational, product, network and industry knowledge.

Sue has been an active member of the NADP Membership Workgroup since 2010.  In 2011 and 2014, she was awarded a Star Award for her accomplishments and contributions on the Membership Committee.  To be an even more active volunteer in NADP, Sue joined the Government Relations Workgroup in 2017 and is still a volunteer on that Workgroup.

Sue has been on the Board of Directors since 2016 and is currently serving her second and final term. She serves on the Executive Committee as secretary.

As a board member, she is a liaison to both the Research and EDI Workgroups.

Sue has also participated in past Leadership Conferences and every year Advocacy in Action has been held.

Salverian headshot

Research Commission
Angela Salverian, United Concordia Dental

The Research Commission salutes Angela for taking on new roles and projects, being very engaged in re-developing surveys, creating new surveys, and supporting the Shared Research program.

Angela Salverian joined the NADP Research Commission in 2019 and in 2020 was appointed vice-chair. She is director, strategy risk management with United Concordia Dental where she is responsible for market research and competitive intelligence. Angela joined United Concordia in 2017 and has extensive experience in health insurance in various roles including strategy, marketing, sales support, product development, communications, and finance.

Previously she was with Independence Blue Cross where she managed ancillary business and partnerships, and with AmeriHealth Administrators where she created and expanded the role of the marketing services business unit. Angela is a member of the Strategic and Competitive Intelligence Professionals and holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Villanova University.

2019

Sept. 16-19 - Orlando, Florida

Commission on Advocacy (CAP)

Martin McGuinness, Unum

CAP is honoring Marty for cultivating critical relationships on the Hill, including organizing industry responses on a proposal to establish a federal claims database.

James Slotnick, Sun Life Financial

CAP is recognizing James for his quick and significant advocacy response and engagement on a proposal to establish a federal claims database.

Communications WorkGroup (WG)

Teresa Duncan, Odyssey Management

Communications commends Teresa for leading her project team in surveying in dental offices, including providing her client list, fielding the survey and providing results.

Carol Egan, Renaissance

Communications applauds Carol for her leadership, creativity and insightful feedback on multiple communications project teams.

Government Funded Programs WG (GFP WG)

Kim Sheldrake, RDA, UnitedHealthcare

GFPWG praises Kim for outstanding participation, providing vital information and insight on public program developments and taking an active role in all the workgroup’s initiatives.

Matthew Sinnott, Willamette

GFP WG honors Matt for keeping the group well-informed of public policy discussions and initiatives in the Pacific Northwest and providing important insights on dental benefits in public programs.

Mark Waterbury, DentaQuest

GFP WG commends Mark’s unique and in-depth insight on Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and Medicare Advantage policies and implementation of the preclusion list.

Government Relations WG (GRW)

Holt Hathaway, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina

GRW lauds Holt for keeping the group informed of critical updates from North Carolina and her leadership organizing a successful response to network leasing legislation.

Devin McBrayer, Delta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates

GRW celebrates Devin’s active participation in the GRW’s tracking and review of state legislation, and her thoughtful input on analysis of key bills.

James Mullen, Delta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates

GRW extols Jim’s frequent contributions to the GRW’s day-to-day activities, as well as his assistance with improving the group’s operations and NADP’s advocacy strategy.

Membership WG

Brian Correia, Solstice

The Membership WG salutes Brian for his Membership recruitment success.

Roger Skinner, Argus Dental and Vision

The Membership WG exalts Roger’s continued success in membership recruitment.

Research Commission

Marc Aranoff, Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.

The Research Commission praises Marc for leadership in promoting engagement of his fellow Commission members.

2018

Sept. 24-27, Hyatt Regency @ Colorado Convention Center, Denver, CO

Commission on Advocacy Policy Stars

Suzanne Heckenlaible, Delta Dental of Iowa
The Commission on Advocacy Policy (CAP) is recognizes Suzanne for cultivating critical relationships on the Hill, including organizing industry responses on the draft Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act.

Richard Jones, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America
Richard is receiving the Star Award from CAP for his outstanding leadership of the Government Relations Workgroup and active role in responding to issues in key states including California and Washington.

Crystal McElroy, MetLife
CAP celebrates Crystal’s exceptional insights on federal and state issues and engagement in industry activity related to dental loss ratio legislation in California.

Communications Stars

Julie Lange, The Dental Care Plus Group

The Communications WorkGroup cites Julie’s and Bonnie’s expertise and creativity in the 50 Voices Video project promoting the value of employer-sponsored dental benefits.

Bonnie Strouse-Sobrino, MBA, formerly of DentalPlans.com
The Communications WorkGroup cites Julie’s and Bonnie’s expertise and creativity in the 50 Voices Video project promoting the value of employer-sponsored dental benefits.

Education Commission

Dr. Steve Keller, Steven H Keller, DDS & Assoc., P.A.
The Education Commission applauds Dr. Keller’s moderation of broadcasts and routine engagement with webinar presenters. Dr. Keller is the recipient of the Galaxy Award, which is presented to individuals receiving four or more Star Awards.

EDI WorkGroup

Chris Williams, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America
The EDI WorkGroup commends Chris for leadership of the group. Chris brings his EDI knowledge to the EDI group and helps continue move the industry forward with raising the rate of EDI transactions.

Government Relations WorkGroup Stars

Bernard LaPine, United Concordia Dental
The Government Relations WorkGroup (GRW) praises Bernard for his frequent contributions to the GRW’s analysis of legislative and regulatory topics, as well as his active participation in the Networks Subgroup.

Kathy Larkin, DenteMax
The Government Relations WorkGroup acknowledges Kathy’ 
support of a broad variety of GRW initiatives and her insightful input on key legislative items affecting the industry in multiple states.

SNOMED /ICD Sub-WorkGroup Stars

Dr. Mary Johnson, Delta Dental of Minnesota
The SNOMED /ICD Sub-WorkGroup honors Dr. Johnson for her diligence in developing accurate SNOMED vocabulary.

Dr. Cherag D. Sarkari, Access Dental Services
The SNOMED /ICD Sub-WorkGroup honors Dr. Sarkari for his diligence in developing accurate SNOMED vocabulary.

2017

Sept. 15-18, Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Commission on Advocacy Policy Stars

Stephanie Berry, Delta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates
Stephanie is being recognized her ongoing support of the Government Relations and Exchange WorkGroups, her leadership of the Advocacy in Action Host Committee and ensuring the industry’s continued voice on the Hill.

Jonathan Renfrew, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America
Jon is being praised for his quick and extensive follow-up with members of the US Senate on inclusion of pediatric dental in tax credits under the Better Care Reconciliation Act.

Codes WorkGroup Star

Linda Neyhard, United Concordia Companies, Inc.
Linda is one of only four individuals to receive the NADP Galaxy Award, presented to individuals who have received four or more Star Awards in the past. The Codes WorkGroup is honoring Linda for her expertise in reviewing CDT Codes quickly and efficiently resulting in an accurate file for industry use.

Exchange WorkGroup Star

Beth Dougherty, Life and Specialty Ventures
Bethany is being honored for outstanding participation and insights on the Exchange WorkGroup and her key role in developing consensus on industry advocacy positions.

Government Relations WorkGroup (GRW) Stars

Lisa Bandelli-Virgona, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America
Lisa is being honored for outstanding participation and open discourse within the GRW and her key role in the Network Subgroup’s development of a 50-state tracking tool.

Deana Wright, Principal
Deana is being recognized for significant contributions to GRW initiatives, including the Networks Subgroup and advocacy on Louisiana legislation impacting ID cards.

Membership WorkGroup Star

Donna Hunter of United Concordia Companies, Inc
Donna is being honored for going the extra mile to research dues structures and calculations of similar organizations.

Operations WorkGroup Star

Corinne Hanson, Sun Life
Corinne being recognized for leading the Provider Directory Validation project. She kept the group organized and on schedule.

Research Commission Stars

Ignacio Quiaro, DenteMax
Ignacio is being praised for their contributions in the development of new Network Administration Survey.

Dustin Smith, United Concordia Companies, Inc.
Dustin is being recognized for their contributions in the development of new Network Administration Survey.

2016

Sept. 12-15, Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa, San Antonio, TX

Commission on Advocacy Policy Star

Fred Horowitz, DMD, Nevada Dental Benefits
for exemplary advocacy by initiating a face-to-face district meeting with his US representative, Congressman Heck, to provide industry concerns on HR 3323 which Heck cosponsored

Communications WorkGroup Star

Jeff Schwab, Dominion National
for providing big-picture insights regarding content and strategies targeting consumers.

Jennifer Schidler, Lincoln Financial
for giving insightful feedback on workgroup content and contributions to the consumer outreach initiative.

Exchange Policy WorkGroup Star

Matt Sinnott, Willamette
for keeping the group well-informed of critical Exchange updates from Oregon and Washington and providing important insights on dental benefits in public programs.

Exchange Policy WorkGroup Star

Greta Flam, Guardian
for sharing timely updates from key states and leading an industry effort to collect data demonstrating necessary technical fixes on the federal Exchange.

Government Relations WorkGroup Star

Kathy Larkin, Dentemax
providing and sharing critical insight on state network adequacy laws and regulations as they are introduced or adopted.

Membership WorkGroup Star

Roger Skinner, Argus
for providing invaluable insight and feedback regarding proposed changes to the membership dues structure, and serving as the WG's go-to resource regarding Medicaid and Medicare.

Operations WorkGroup Star

Sonni Zambino, Dentistat & go2dental
for providing and managing a tracking system for phase 2 of the credentialing project.

Research Commission Star

Gina Magee, Lincoln Financial
Research Commission: Gina has been a consistent voice on the Research Commission and her input on NADP’s Statistical reports, especially on the Claims Metrics Report, has been extremely valuable,.

2015

Sept. 28-Oct. 1, JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, Palm Desert, CA

Communications WorkGroup Star

Julie Lange, Dental Care Plus Group
For providing expertise & direction regarding social media & public relations

Membership WorkGroup Star

Chuck Stewart, Dental Advisors
For outstanding membership retention efforts

Codes WorkGroup Stars

Linda Neyhard, United Concordia Companies, Inc.        
Linda continues to lead us in the very detailed and time-consuming review of the files prior to the public release of the ASCII files for the new CDT Codes. The ADA continues to share documents with NADP before they are released to the public indicating their trust and faith in our ability to accurately reflect each code.

Dr. Fred Horowitz, Nevada Dental Benefits
Fred has taken on major roles within the coding realm through his Vice Chair role of the IHTSDO Dental WG and participation in the process to develop a General Dentistry Reference Set of diagnostic codes for the US realm. His understanding of the interrelations of codes sets and claims submissions within the practice of dentistry continue to direct NADP's efforts.

Government Relations & Operations WorkGroups Star

Lynn Green, GEHA
This year, state legislators and regulators including the NAIC focused on networks and provider directories as areas for new standards. The GRW is recognizing Lynn for sharing her expertise in network compliance, providing background on state approaches and perspective on a separate subgroup tasked with responding to NAIC. We award Lynn for her dedication to the Accreditation SWG and her willingness to always participate in Operations topics with her industry knowledge.

Government Relations WorkGroup Star

Erika Cybulskis, Delta Dental MI, IN, OH
For keeping the group well-informed of critical updates from Ohio and her key role an effort that lead the Insurance Department to reevaluate the application of a proposed Network Rule to dental.

Operations WorkGroup Star

Mike Cole, Dental Care Alliance
For his leadership with the credentialing project and his company producing the pilot Credentialing forms.

Exchange Technical WorkGroup Star

Lori Heverly, Guardian
For representing Dental with the weekly SHOP calls and reporting back to the ETW.

Education Commission Star

Rebecca Hetzer, Dental Care Plus
Recommendations of stakeholder organizations with an interest in oral health to HLI#3 for NADP’s 2015-2020 Strategic Plan on expanding collaboration

Exchange Policy WorkGroup Star

Crystal McElroy, MetLife
For providing resources and perspective on several critical issues including loss ratios, quality, network adequacy and essential benefits; her enthusiastic recruiting to include more volunteers from members on Exchanges; and advocacy in key policy discussions in several states including California

Margie Mergen, Liberty Dental
For outstanding participation, providing vital information on state Exchange activities and taking an active role in all the workgroup’s initiatives.

Research Commission Star

Allan Corkum,UHC
Allan has provided consistent thought leadership in the design and content of NADP’s Statistical Surveys. He has been instrumental in identifying changes in the industry’s information needs and helping NADP align its research activities with those future needs in mind.

2014

Sept. 15-18, Omni Orlando Resort, Championsgate, FL

Codes Workgroup Star

Linda Neyhard, United Concordia Companies, Inc.        
Linda is being recognized for her quick and thorough analysis of the draft CDT-2015 information which resulted in numerous corrections to the CDT file and publications.  Linda will be honored with a Double Star Award.

Codes Workgroup Star

Linda Neyhard, United Concordia Companies, Inc.        
Linda is being recognized for her quick and thorough analysis of the draft CDT-2015 information which resulted in numerous corrections to the CDT file and publications.  Linda will be honored with a Double Star Award.

Communications Committee Star

Alissa Gavrilescu, Solstice Benefits   
Alissa is being honored for her contributions to the consumer campaign including development of an oral health infograph and outreach to the American Heart Association.

Government Relations WorkGroup Stars

David Hill, Assurant Employee Benefits
The GRC is honoring David for his timely alerts, analysis and input on critical state legislation and regulation impacting the dental benefits industry.

Lori Heverly, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America
Lori is receiving the Star Award for sharing her expertise in navigating additional filing requirements resulting from health care reform and her significant contributions in building a calendar of Exchange and EHB compliance deadlines.

Membership Committee Star

Sue Wright, Lincoln Financial Group     
Sue is receiving the Double Star Award for outstanding membership recruitment and retention efforts. She received her first Star Award from the Membership Committee in 2011.

Operations Workgroup Star

Amy Marko, Aspen Dental
Amy is being honored for her credentialing contributions and solutions. Amy has been instrumental in bringing the DSOs to our discussions and action plan around working better together.

Research Commission Star

Shari Derhammer, Guardian Life Insurance
Shari is receiving the Star Award for her steadfast and consistent support of Research Commission projects.

State Exchange Task Force Star

James Mullen, Delta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates
James is being recognized for his outstanding work in advocating for the overall dental benefits industry in key discussions of state-based Exchanges, including the California and District of Columbia

2013

Sept. 9-12, Bellagio Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada

Communications Committee Stars

Allison Dubbs, The Dental Care Plus Group     
The Communications Committee is honoring Allison for her contributions to the broker article series

Cathy Schmidtke, UnitedHealthCare
Communications Committee praises Cathy for leading the way in writing of articles for the broker series

Education Commission Star

Dr. Steve Keller, Steven H Keller, DDS & Assoc., P.A.
The Education Commission is honoring Dr. Steve Keller for his contribution of time and industry insight to NADP’s webinar series as moderator. Dr. Keller is a Gabryl Award winner and will be receiving a triple star.

Government Relations Commission Stars

Suzanne Heckenlaible, Delta Dental of IA       
The Government Relations Commission is presenting Suzanne the Star Award for key leadership and advocacy efforts that led to the Iowa Governor and DOI’s decision to clarify positions on Equitable Treatment and Reasonable Assurance—the first state to address these two key issues critical to the industry’s success.

Joshua Nace, Dental Health Services   
Government Relations Commission honors Josh for outstanding participation within the GRC, providing vital information on state Exchange activities and highlighting the intersection of legislative and regulatory policy as Exchange implementation progresses.

Health Care Reform Task Force & Membership Committee Star

Jeff Album, Delta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates     
Two volunteer groups are honoring Jeff Album for outstanding volunteer service. The Health Care Reform Task Force is recognizing Jeff for his tireless efforts advocating the dental industry’s positions to Covered California and other states, and the Membership Committee is praising him for recruitment of Delta Dental Plan members. Jeff will be receiving his second Galaxy Star Award, which is presented to individuals who have been honored with the Star Award four or more times.

Health Care Reform Task Force Star

Gail Garcia, Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.      
The Health Care Reform Task Force recognizes Gail for her continued work on the Task Force providing early alerts and analysis on a variety of issues including taxes and Exchanges.

Membership Committee Star

Roger Skinner, Maverest Dental         
The Membership Committee honors Roger for recruitment and retention of members.

Research Commission Star

Susan Huff, Dental One Partners                                 
The Research Commission recognizes Susan Huff for her efforts to expand NADP's marketing of Dental Industry Statistical Reports with Dental Services Organizations. Through her initiative, the Research Commission has a better understanding of DSO needs and concerns relating to NADP's statistical report offerings

State Exchange Task Force Stars

Courtney Ransom, Access Dental/Premier Access       
The State Exchange Task Force commends Courtney for keeping the Task Force well-informed of critical updates as well as advocating for dental in multiple state Exchanges. In addition, she served as a key liaison between the Health Care Reform and State Exchange Task Forces.

Matthew Sinnott, Willamette Dental Group   
State Exchange Task Force recognizes Matthew for sharing invaluable insight on federal exchange regulation as well as advocating dental issues in the Washington and Oregon Exchanges, two challenging and critical marketplaces for dental.

2012

Sept. 10-13, 2012, Talking Stick Resort, Scottsdale/Phoenix, AZ

Government Relations Commission Star

Rick Lantz, Delta Dental of MI, IN, OH
Rick Lantz receives the 2013 GRC Star for his outstanding participation and insight on key issues critical to the dental plan industry.

Health Care Reform Task Force Stars

Jeff Album, Delta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates
Jeff Album is one of two volunteers receiving the Galaxy (quadruple Star) for his continued support of HCR activities within NADP and throughout the states.

Chris Swanker, Guardian Life
Chris Swanker receives a triple-star award from HCR TF for his willingness to utilize connections with the administrator of the Federally-facilitated Exchange of HHS and NADP, bringing about a vital and ongoing conversation on the development of federal exchanges.

State Exchange Workgroup Star

James Mullen, Delta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates
James Mullen, MHP, receives the Star Award for his outstanding participation within SEW, providing vital and timely information on multiple state Exchange activities as they relate to dental.

Membership Committee Stars

Forrest Flint, HealthPartners
Forrest Flint receives the Star Award for promoting NADP to colleagues and bringing in a new member.
NADP Board Vice-Chair Forrest currently serves as the Vice President of HealthPartners Dental Plan, where he is responsible for the overall performance of the dental insurance plan area of the organization.

Rob Goren, Delta Dental of MO
Rob Goren receives the Star Award for development of excellent membership recruitment strategies and materials leading to the addition of new Delta Dental plan members

Theresa McConeghey, Principal
Theresa McConeghey receives the Star Award for promoting NADP to colleagues and bringing in a new member.

Linda Moore, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC
Linda Moore receives a triple Star from the Membership Committee for her outstanding membership recruitment of Blue Cross members.

Chuck Stewart, Smile Brands
Chuck Stewart is the second member receiving the Galaxy Star Award (quadruple Star) for stellar membership recruitment and retention of Dental Service Organization members.

2011

Sept. 12-15 at the Marriott Marquis Atlanta

Communications Committee Star

Jenna Mills, GEHA/PPO USA
The Communications Committee praises Jenna for her contributions to the development of broker article series.

Government Relations Commission Stars

Stephanie Frost, HealthPartners

Kate McCown, Ameritas

The Government Relations Commission recognizes Stephanie and Kate for their swift response and open discourse with fellow colleagues on timely issues, including corresponding information highlighting effects on the dental benefits industry.

Dr. D.E. FitzGerald for work on diagnostic codes.

Health Care Reform Task Force Star

Chris Swanker, Guardian Life Insurance of America
The Health Care Reform Task Force applauds Chris for his ongoing commitment to health care reform, including testifying on behalf of the industry at the NAIC, and securing an audience with key HHS personnel.

Membership Committee Stars

Linda Moore, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC 

The Membership Committee recognizes Linda for her recruitment of Blue Cross plans, including Blue Cross of South Carolina, one of the largest members, in terms of enrollment, added in recent years.

Chuck Stewart, Smile Brands
The Membership Committee also honors Chuck Stewart for his retention and recruitment efforts of plans and dental practice management companies including the addition of CAREINGTON International, MCNA and Great Expressions.

Sue Wright, Lincoln Financial Group
The Membership Committee recognized Sue Wright as the Rookie of the Year.

PRC Professional Relations WorkGroup Star

Dr. Craig Amundson, HealthPartners for taking on DQA tasks

2010

September 20-23 at the Sheraton Seattle

Communications Committee Star

Chris Swanker, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America
The Communications Committee recognizes Chris for providing a list of broker contacts that made the launch of NADP SmartBrief possible. (Although Chris does not serve on the Communications Committee, his contribution was invaluable. Chris is a member of the GRC).

Government Relations Commission Star

Michael Hickey, MetLife
The Government Relations Commission (GRC) commends Michael for his extraordinary expertise and efforts regarding non-covered services legislation.

Health Care Reform Task Force Stars

Jeff Album, Delta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates
The Health Care Reform Task Force recognizes Jeff Album for his efforts to establish cross industry communication and understanding with regard to health care reform.

Ruth Ann Woodley, Ruark Consulting, LLC
The Health Care Reform Task Force is pleased to present Ruth Ann with her award for her contributions to unraveling the impacts of HCR on industry products and establishing and understanding of our industry with FAIR Health. (Although Ruth Ann isn’t a member of the Health Care Reform Task Force, her knowledgeable contributions advanced the work of this group. Ruth Ann serves on the Professional Relations Council’s CDT Workgroup).

Membership Committee Stars

Linda Moore, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina
The Membership Committee is awarding Linda the Star Award for her dedicated efforts in qualifying prospects and recruiting new members.

Chuck Stewart, Director Business Development, Smile Brands, Inc. 
The Membership Committee also acknowledges Chuck for his creative contributions to marketing and retention campaigns.

2009

Sept 22-25, Camelback Inn, Scottsdale, AZ

Government Relations Commission Star

Michael CochraneLincoln Financial Group
Mike is receiving the Star Award for his continued contributions to the GRC in regulatory state and federal affairs.

Health Care Reform Task Force Star

Jeff AlbumDelta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates
The Health Care Reform Task Force is honoring Jeff for his outstanding work in addressing the interests of the overall dental benefits industry in health care reform.  This is the second time Jeff has been honored with a Star Award.

Rick Barrett, Dental Economics, HCR Task Force/for his vital role in the grassroots campaign to influence legislators regarding healthcare reform issues.

Sternberg Family (Donna, Hans, Erich), HCR Task Force/for using their strong relationships with elected officials to protect the interests of standalone dental plans.

Membership Committee Star

Chuck StewartBrightNow!
Chuck is being recognized for his work recruiting new members

PRC Professional Relations WorkGroup Star

John RiceEmblem Health
John is receiving the Star Award for his volunteer spirit and contributions to the Common Dental Presentation Subcommittee and Top 10 ADA feature articles.  John also received a Star Award in 2003.

Research Commission Stars

Robin Brenner, Aetna, for her work on improving NADP’s statistical survey, especially the Premium Trends Report.

Mark Coyne, PPO USA, for his help developing a new method for collecting data for Network Statistics.

2008

Sept. 3-5, Buena Vista Palace, Orlando

Communications Committee & PRC Content Workgroup Star

Amie McGraham, Ameritas Life Insurance Corp
2008 Star Award for development of articles in the ADA News Top Ten series and editorial contributions to that series and the white papers based on NADP’s 2007 Consumer Survey

Communications Committee Star

Amanda Whitmarsh, Principal Financial Group
2008 Star Award for development of white papers based on NADP’s 2007 Consumer Survey and a tactical plan for the messaging campaign

Government Relations Commission Star

Gary Pickard, Pacific Dental Services
2008 Star Award for his expertise and research in bringing the impact on the provider community to issues being discussed by the GRC

PRC CDT Workgroup Star

Linda Neyhard, United Concordia Companies, Inc.
2008 Star Award for her quick and thorough analysis of the July 1st release of the CDT-2009 ASCII file which resulted in the ADA issuing a corrected file

PRC Clinical Workgroup Star

Robert (Rob) Compton, DDS, Delta Dental Plan of MA
2008 Star Award for consistent and comprehensive contributions to projects, especially the development of a comprehensive plan for NADP’s upcoming educational series and summit on “Dental Performance Measurement

Research Commission Star

Darrin Hall CIGNA Dental & Vision Care
2008 Star Award presented for his instrumental contributions in expanding and perfecting NADP’s research portfolio and services

2007

Sept. 20-23 at the Sheraton Seattle

Annual Conference Task Force Star

Ron Inge, DDS, Washington Dental Service
Ron is being recognized for his assistance in all aspects of the 2007 conference, i.e. identifying conference topics; securing speakers, sponsors and exhibitors as well as developing the Thursday Night Extravaganza at the Experience Music Project (EMP)

Government Relations Commission Stars

Jeff Album, Delta Dental of CA, NY, PA & Affiliates
Jeff is being honored for first year exemplary participation in all aspects of NADP's government relations process.

Ellie Jurado-Nieves, Esq., MetLife
Ellie is receiving the Star Awad for her work in obtaining the dental exemption to TX 522 requiring use of smart ID cards

Membership Recruitment and Retention Task Force Star

Diane Darling, Principal Financial Group
The Membership Task Force is honoring Diane for her dedicated efforts in membership recruitment and retention

Professional Relations Commission Stars

Jeanne Hensel,Humana Dental
PRC is praising Jeanne for her leadership, good humor and persistence which has been key to developing and delivering content for the Top Ten article series in the ADA News

Preddis Sullivan, DDS, MBA, Blue Shield of CA
PRC is recognizing Preddis for paving the way for a successful series in the ADA News as the primary author of the first article in the Top Ten series

2006

Sept. 27-29, Westin Westminster, Denver

Annual Conference Task Force Star

BeBe Shuler-Mure, CIGNA Dental & Vision
Bebe is being recognized for identification and recruitment of numerous conference speakers.

Jennifer Steinhilber-Erb, Delta Dental Plan of MI, IN, OH
Jennifer is being honored for her development of a pre-conference workshop for implementation in 2007.

CDT-TAC Stars

D.E. FitzGerald, DDS
Dr. FitzGerald is receiving the Star Award for support and monitoring of the entire CDT and CRC process and attendance at all CRC meetings.

Dana Wondercheck, ACS, FLMI, FLHC, Ameritas
Dana is being honored for her support of the CDT TAX and research related to proposed CRC submissions.

Government Relations Commission Stars

Eileen Smink United Concordia Companies, Inc.
Elieen is being honored for her ability to single-out specific wording or phrases in never-ending statutes and decipher the direct or indirect impact of them on dental plans.

Virginia Dilley, United Concordia Companies, Inc.
Virginia is being recognized for her dedication to the GRC in reviewing documents, adding the right argument and following-up on pending regulations.

Membership Task Force

Brian Watts, First Dental Health
Brian’s recruitment of new members earned him the Star Award.

Professional Relations Commission

Jeanne Hensel, Humana Dental
Jeanne is being honored for her leadership of the PRC Education-Communication Subgroup in developing the Top Ten articles, on-line course content and white papers on key industry issues. 

2005

Sept. 14-16, Sheraton San Diego

CDT TAC Stars

Dr. D.E. FitzGerald
Dr. Fitzgerald’s involvement and dedication to the CDT TAC and oversight of CRC earned him a Star Award.

Dr. Jack Norsen, CIGNA Dental & Vision Care
Dr. Norsen received the Star Award for his involvement and dedication to the CDT TAC and oversight of the CRC.

EDI TAC Stars

Theresa Jansen (United Concordia Companies)
Theresea Jansen is honored for her dedication and leadership of EDI TAC.

Government Relations Commission (GRC)

Larry Smole (Aetna Dental)
Larry is recognized for his tireless efforts in assisting GRC in crafting the Discount Model Act in addition to the leading and supporting timely state legislative and regulatory issues.

Membership Recruitment and Retention Task Force

Jerry Nosewicz (Health Net Life Insurance Co.)
Jerry’s recruitment of new members earned him a Star Award.

Professional Relations Commission Star

Dr. Craig Amundson, HealthPartners
Dr. Amundson is recognized for his leadership on the PRC in development of a dental workforce estimate.

PRC, the GRC and the E-Education Star

Kim Sheldrake (AmeriPlan USA Corp.)
Kim is honored for volunteering on multiple groups including the PRC, the GRC and the E-Education Task Force

2004

Sept. 21-24, Renaissance Vinoy, St, Petersburg

Annual Conference Task Force Star

Dr. Gene Sherman, Starmount Life
Dr. Sherman is recognized for his contributions to development of exhibitors and sponsors

E-Education

Denise Schaffer, OraPharma
Denise is praised for contributions to the 2004 E-Education programming.

Government Relations Commission Stars

Julia Baker, AmeriPlan
Julia is praised for contributions to the development of the Discount Healthcare Act.

Kim Sheldrake, AmeriPlan
Kim is praised contributions to the GR Compliance Survey and development of the Discount Healthcare Act.

Membership Task Force

Dr. Steve Keller, DentaQuest
Steve is recognized for his leadership of the Membership Task Force in adding of the second largest group of new voting members in the history of NADP.

Research Commission Star

Marc Aranoff, Guardian Life
Marc is honored for his detailed work on NADP's statistical reports.

Virtual Seminar Task Force Stars

Dr. Paul Chaitkin, First Commonwealth
Dr. Chaitkin is recognized for his work with Jeanne Hensel in development of an on-line, self-paced training program based on Dental Benefits 101.

Jeanne Hensel, Humana
Jeannie is recognized for her work with Dr. Chaitkin in development of an on-line, self-paced training program based on Dental Benefits 101 and for her contributions to the development of Dental Benefits 101.

2003

Sept. 24-26, Sheraton Wild Horse Pass, Phoenix, AZ

Annual Conference Task Force Stars

Bret Guether, Dentistate/go2dental
Bret is recognized for development of 15th Annual Conference session ideas and speaker recruitment

Louis Szuch, cimr,
Louis is praised for development of the annual conference in exhibit prospects and overall promotion

Government Relations Commission Star

Julia Baker, AmeriPlan
Julia is honored for her development of a white paper on discount dental plans.

Eileen Smink, United Concordia Companies, Inc.
Eileen is honored for development of legislative strategy relating to significant Texas legislation and regulations

CDT TAC Star

Dr. Paul Chaitkin, First Commonwealth/Guardian  

Dr. Chaitkin is recognized for development of processes and protocols for the CDT Technical Advisory Committee

IAAC Statistical Task Force Star

John Foley, Dental Network of America
John is praised for his development of NADP’s 2003 Statistical Reports

Provider Practice Capacity Initiative Stars

Jim Hager, Blue Shield of CA
Jim is being honored for contributions to the Provider Capacity Initiative

John Rice, Group Health Inc.
John is celebrated for development of publicity materials on PPCI’s position statement

Membership Task Force

Steve Keller, DentaQuest Mid Atlantic
Steve received the Star Award for recruitment of new full voting members

Brent Williams, Dental Select
Brent is recognized for development of revised dues structure for full voting members

2002

Sept. 18-20, Fairmont Hotel, New Orleans

Annual Conference Task Force Star

Bret Guenther, CEBS, Dentistat/go2dental.com
Bret is praised for contributions to the development of the Annual Conference in session ideas and recruitment of speakers.

Exhibitor Task Force Star

Louis Szuch, cimr
Louis is recognized for contributions to the development of Exhibit/Sponsorship prospects as well as overall promotion of the Annual Conference.

Statistical Task Force Star

Cynthia A. Kuester, Health Resources
Cynthia is honored for contributions to the development of NADP's statistical reports.

Virtual Seminar Task Force Star

Roger J. Adams, DMD, Anthem Blue Cross
Dr. Adams is praised for initiation and development of the virtual seminars format and programming.

2001

Oct. 10-12, Westin Harbor Castle, Toronto, Canada

Annual Conference Task Force Star

Patricia R. Pohl, Pro-Plus Insurance Brokers
Patricia received the Star Award for contributions to the development of the Annual Conference in Exhibit prospects, session and speaker ideas and overall promotion

DentiFACTS Stars

Beth Barker, Cigna
Beth was honored for setting up a framework for information access and retrieval for the dental

Carl Brody, MetLife
Carl was honored for setting up a framework for information access and retrieval for the dental benefits industry

Government Relations Commission Star

Larry Smole, Aetna
Larry was praised For negotiation of Texas interpretation on limitations and exclusions.

Membership Task Force Star

Lee J. Harris, DDS, PacifiCare
This is Lee’s second year to be honored for his continual efforts to increase NADP’s membership.

Research and Information Star

Gene Sherman, DMD, BCBS MA
Dr. Sherman was praised for his oversight and contributions to NADP Statistical Reports

2000

Oct. 4-6, Caesar’s Palace, Las Vegas

Annual Conference Task Force Star

Scott Breakstone, Healthcare Consultant, Bradley Pharmaceuticals
Scott is being honored for recruitment of speakers, exhibitors and sponsors

Government Relations Commission Star

Rebecca (Martinez) Sanchez, Principal/DentalNet
Rebecca is being praised for single handedly thwarting negative legislation in Arizona

Membership Task Force Stars

Jim Fuhrman, Pacific Dental Benefits
Jim received the Star Award for incorporating membership outreach into his travels and sales calls resulting in three new NADP members

Dr. Lee Harris, PacifiCare
Dr. Harris is being recognize for Board Member Outreach Program

IAAC

Dr. Bill Jackson, Dental Connect
Dr. Jackson is being honored For developing the matrix for prioritization of information for IAAC