The International College of Dentists (ICD), in partnership with Henry Schein, Inc., celebrated the launch of the Global Oral Health Leadership (GOHL) Institute at a distinguished dinner event held at the Harvard Club of New York City on Dec. 1, 2024. The evening marked a transformative moment for oral health worldwide, bringing together leaders, entrepreneurs and stakeholders committed to advancing oral health equity.
The Global Oral Health Leadership Institute is designed to develop and empower oral health leaders to systemically advance oral health care, access and policy at all levels, especially in underserved communities. Dr. Ian Doyle, ICD Global President, highlighted the expanded mission of the Institute, noting its focus on collaboration, inclusion and innovation. “This is not just a continuation of an impactful program,” he stated, “but an evolution aimed at addressing today’s most pressing global health challenges through leadership, policy and advocacy.”
Dr. Sara Hurley, GOHL Institute Program Director and former Chief Dental Officer of England, previewed the past, present and future vision of the programme, emphasising the interconnected nature of oral health with broader health and socio-economic systems. “Oral health is a social justice issue,” she remarked. “Through the GOHL Institute, we aim to nurture leaders prepared to tackle disparities, navigate complex global systems, and champion equitable access to care.”
The celebratory event showcased the unique interdisciplinary approach of GOHL, which brings together experts from dentistry, public health, industry and academia. Delegates from Harvard University, King’s College London and industry partners such as Henry Schein were recognized for their pivotal roles in shaping the program and their support for the GOHL Institute’s predecessor, the Senior Dental Leaders Program (SDL). Attendees included SDL alumni, ICD global leaders from 20 countries, and prominent industry and media figures.
Stan Bergman, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Henry Schein, Inc., spoke on the company’s 20-year partnership with the program and its commitment to advancing oral health initiatives globally. Henry Schein’s financial and technical contributions have been instrumental in transitioning the program into the dynamic GOHL platform.
“The power of public-private partnerships, coupled with visionary leadership, can unlock the potential to improve oral health worldwide,” said Mr. Bergman. “Initiatives like the Global Oral Health Leadership Institute exemplify our shared commitment to prioritizing oral health as an integral part of overall well-being. Together, we can bridge the gap in global oral health and create a healthier future for all.”
The inaugural cohort of GOHL Institute delegates is a diverse group of practitioners, educators, industry entrepreneurs, and humanitarians representing 10 countries and various backgrounds. The 2025 program will kick off in January, focusing on leadership development, project-focused interdisciplinary collaboration, and the creation of a sustainable global network of leaders and alumni. Dr. Hurley expressed her hope for the future stating, “The leaders emerging from this program will transform how the world thinks about oral health, making it a priority, a right and a reality for all.”
The dinner’s celebratory tone reflected the bold ambitions of the GOHL Institute and the collective commitment of its supporters to shape a healthier, more equitable future. The event concluded with a call to action: to leverage the collective expertise and passion in the room to make a lasting impact on global oral health through development and support of the program.
About the Global Oral Health Leadership (GOHL) Institute
The International College of Dentists’ Global Oral Health Leadership Institute prepares selected leaders worldwide to address evolving oral health challenges through an interdisciplinary approach, emphasizing equity, innovation, sustainable solutions and systemic change on local, regional and global levels. The Institute conducts a one-year certification program designed to equip industry, dental and medical leaders with the skills, resources and connections needed to tackle the most pressing oral health issues, while expanding an alumni network focused on mentorship and engagement. www.icd.org/gohl-institute
About the International College of Dentists (ICD)
The International College of Dentists has been Honoring the World’s Leading Dentists Since 1920™. Over 12,000 dentists in 140+ countries have earned the prestigious title of FICD (Fellow International College of Dentists). Fellowship in the College is by invitation only and is granted in recognition of an individual dentist’s “outstanding professional achievement, meritorious service, and dedication to the continued progress of dentistry for the benefit of humankind.” Information on ICD and the hundreds of global humanitarian, educational, and other oral health service-related projects may be viewed at ww.icd.org.
