Align Technology continues its partnership with Operation Smile, funding scholarships for 100 students to attend the 2026 event in Thailand.
Operation Smile has announced Align Technology as the title sponsor of its 2026 International Student Leadership Conference (ISLC). This marks the sixth consecutive year Align has sponsored the event, contributing to a total of nearly $3.8 million in donations to support Operation Smile’s student and surgical programs.
Conference and Scholarship Details
The 34th annual ISLC will take place in Bangkok, Thailand, from July 17 to 23, 2026. The event will host approximately 280 high school and university participants from 37 countries.
Through the Align Scholars program, about 100 students will receive full scholarships that cover travel and conference fees. According to Operation Smile, many of these scholarship recipients were born with a cleft condition, and the majority reside in low- and middle-income countries.
“At Operation Smile, we believe the future of global health lies in the next generation,” says Brigette Clifford, avp student programs at Operation Smile, in a release. “Align Technology has been our most steadfast partner for six years. Their investments reflect their commitment to oral health and in young people’s power to change the world. This year alone, approximately 100 students will attend ISLC knowing someone believed in them.”
Advocating for Global Health Equity
The ISLC aims to equip student leaders with advocacy skills, a professional network, and a deeper understanding of health equity. Graduates of the program often return to their local communities to assist in health systems as medical volunteers or community leaders.
“Align Technology is proud to be a strong supporter of Operation Smile’s life-changing work to provide free surgeries and multi-modal care to people with cleft conditions,” says Julie Paulsen, vp HR, employee programs, and community engagement at Align Technology, in a release. “The ISLC program, sponsored by Align, is a wonderful opportunity for students to develop leadership skills, positively impact their local communities, and raise awareness and advocacy of Operation Smile’s remarkable programs around the world.”
Operation Smile partners with local medical professionals, health ministries, and non-governmental organizations in more than 35 countries to expand access to surgical care.
Photo: ID 49978109 © Sarawut Chamsaeng | Dreamstime.com
