American Association Of Women Dentists

The Women’s Dental Association of the U.S. was founded by Dr. Mary Stillwell-Kuesel with 12 charter members. Dr. Annie T. Focht , secretary, listing 32 members in her report on March 4, 1893, stated: “the women interested in dentistry in Philadelphia in March 1892, to organize a society by which they could strengthen themselves by trying to help one another.” At monthly meetings essayists presented scholarly dental papers. The mailing list grew to include about 100 women dentists. No reports exist after 1898, but previous records indicate they had interests and concerns shared by women colleagues of today. In 1921, 12 women dentists met in Milwaukee, WI during the annual meeting of the American Dental Organization (ADA), forming the Federation of American Women Dentists. The name was changed twice and is currently known as the American Association of Women Dentists (AAWD). The founding mothers, women of stature in dentistry, never intended AAWD to foster separation of women from men, nor did they wish to cause fragmentation in the profession. These women were involved and respected at all levels of organized dentistry. They wanted a support organization to share their common interests and to enjoy friendships and camaraderie. For over 100 years, AAWD has supported women in dentistry. Initially social, it adapted to changing times and member concerns. After World War II, when women dentists forfeited positions held in men’s absence, AAWD guided members toward newer goals. The tradition of mentoring was born. As membership increased, AAWD became a national network for employment opportunities and scientific exchange.