AAO Recognized for NAN Initiative

The AAO received a Power of Associations Silver Award from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) for its NAN initiative.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) has received a Power of Associations Silver Award in the Power of Advocacy category from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), for its successful National Advocacy Network (NAN) initiative.

“Congratulations to AAO Advocacy and the National Advocacy Network for exemplifying the impact associations have on the industries and professions they represent, and on society at large,” said Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, ASAE president and chief executive officer. “It’s always so incredibly satisfying to see associations going above and beyond their everyday mission to change the world. We’re very proud to spotlight this award-winning initiative.”

The AAO’s NAN launched in October 2022 to address the growing need for member engagement with state and federal lawmakers and regulators for enhanced grassroots influence and resources supporting patient health and safety for access to high-quality care.

The NAN is an inaugural group of AAO member volunteer advocates contributing to the strategic development of AAO’s advocacy priorities. This inaugural class of NAN Founders will help chart future success, enhancing the specialty while protecting patient health and safety through grassroots advocacy influence and driving evidence-based policies that the AAO can support.

“The ASAE Power of Associations Award program gives recognition to many outstanding examples of creativity and innovation in how associations serve members and the public,” said Lynne Thomas Gordon, CAE, AAO CEO. “The AAO is honored to have our grassroots advocacy program receive the Power of Advocacy Silver Award. We believe that our members who are participating in the NAN program will be delighted to learn of this recognition of their advocacy for public policies that protect orthodontic patient safety and support fair treatment of their businesses.”