Summary: The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) appointed India Collier, DMD, as Trustee At-Large to bring a more diverse perspective to the board. Collier’s leadership, health equity work, and professional development align with the AAO’s vision. Her 3-year term, beginning in 2025, aims to foster innovation, mentorship, and inclusion, ensuring the association adapts and thrives amid evolving challenges.

Key Takeaways:

  • Collier’s selection reflects the AAO’s commitment to diverse leadership that can address changing industry needs.
  • The AAO expects Collier’s background in innovation, healthcare access, and equity positions her to effectively guide the association’s future strategies and foster a more inclusive professional community.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) announced that the AAO Board of Trustees has approved the addition of a new Trustee At-Large, India Collier, DMD, tasked with bringing diverse viewpoints to strengthen the team.

Selection of a New Trustee At-Large

Collier was selected from a field of highly qualified applicants due to her proven leadership skills, vision for the association of the future, and experience in organized orthodontics and dentistry. The AAO has stated that a diverse board improves its ability to respond to external influences that are changing the environment in which our members practice.

“We were delighted to have had a well-qualified, diverse group of candidates for the Trustee At-Large position,” said John Callahan, DDS, MS, AAO president. “It was not an easy choice. Dr Collier has demonstrated a passion for innovation and a deep commitment to healthcare access, mentorship, and diversity through leadership roles and other volunteer positions. Her experiences will enable her to bring valuable insights to our board.”

After the 2025 Annual Session, Collier will join the AAO Board of Trustees for a 3-year term.

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Professional Background and Contributions to Health Equity

Employed by Great Expressions Dental Centers in Fayetteville, Ga, and a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, Collier completed the orthodontic residency program at the Augusta University College of Dental Medicine in 2017.

Collier was a judge for the 2023 Johnson & Johnson Health Equity Innovation Challenge, working with public health and health equity experts nationally. The judging panel reviewed applications offering solutions that have the potential to advance health equity, developed by entrepreneurs, start-ups, community organizations and other innovators.

Also in 2023, Collier completed the Yale School of Management Executive Education Women’s Leadership Program, designed to equip women leaders with the tools and strategies needed to drive innovation, make strategic decisions, lead effectively within organizations, and foster a culture of collaboration.

“I am truly honored and excited to join the Board of Trustees as the newest Trustee At-Large in 2025,” said Collier. “I am especially excited to work together to champion initiatives that inspire growth, foster meaningful connections and drive positive change for our profession. I look forward to working alongside such a dedicated team to create a lasting impact and create a future that reflects our shared commitment to excellence and inclusivity.”

Photo courtesy of the AAO