
Outstanding Contributions Recognized at the 2025 AAO Annual Session
During the recent 2025 AAO Annual Session held in Philadelphia, the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) awarded five prominent orthodontists for their exceptional contributions to the field. These accolades honor professionals who have dedicated their careers to enhancing orthodontic practices through clinical excellence, education, and service.
The Albert H. Ketcham Memorial Award
The highest honor, the Albert H. Ketcham Memorial Award, was bestowed upon David McKendree Sarver, DMD, MS. After over three decades on the faculty at the University of North Carolina and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Sarver has significantly impacted orthodontic science through his commitment to teaching and pioneering surgical-orthodontic programs.
Honorees of the Dale B. Wade Award
Two distinguished orthodontists, Larry P. Tadlock, DDS, MS, and Scott Allan Jamieson, DDS, MS, received the Dale B. Wade Award of Excellence in Orthodontics. Tadlock has dedicated over 30 years to clinical practice and education as head of the orthodontic department at Texas A&M University. Meanwhile, Jamieson has greatly contributed as both a clinician and ABO leader, highlighting the importance of mentorship and guidance in advancing orthodontic education.
Acknowledging Exceptional Service
The Earl E. and Wilma S. Shepard Distinguished Service Award was presented to Melissa Brydels for her integral role as the ABO’s marketing and events manager prior to her retirement last year. Her leadership helped shape the evaluation and marketing strategies that uplift orthodontic practices.
Additionally, James Pressly Henderson, PhD, received the O.B. Vaughan Special Recognition Award for his noteworthy contributions to orthodontic education and credentialing. His work illustrates the importance of thorough assessment in maintaining high educational standards for future orthodontists.
Celebrating Dedication to Orthodontics
These awards reflect the immense dedication and influential work of these professionals within the orthodontic community. As Carole Newport, CEO of the ABO, articulated, their contributions have enriched the field tremendously and will continue to inspire upcoming generations of orthodontic practitioners.
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