Led by: Angela Ritchie

Overview of Common Oral Pathology

Did you know that nearly 10% of the population has an oral lesion at any given time—many of which go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed? In this case-based course, you’ll sharpen your diagnostic eye and learn how to distinguish between harmless and serious lesions. Whether you’re a seasoned clinician or just looking to brush up, this session will leave you more confident in your evaluations.

Learning Outcomes

• Recognize the clinical features of the most commonly encountered oral pathologic conditions
• Differentiate between benign, potentially malignant, and malignant oral lesions
• Identify risk factors associated with common oral diseases
• Formulate management plans for patients with oral pathology

East Central Dental Society provides these sessions, in partnership with Shafer Leadership Academy, as a member benefit. 

Note: A dinner option is available for this session.

Led by: Eric Browning

Dental Implant Maintenance and Peri-Implantitis

Dental implants have become a cornerstone of modern dentistry—but maintaining them requires a unique approach. This session explores routine implant maintenance, how to recognize complications like peri-implantitis, and how to determine the right course of action when issues arise. Whether you’re managing implants in your own practice or referring patients out, this session will clarify your role in long-term implant success.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand how implant maintenance differs from the care of natural teeth
• Learn to recognize the signs of a healthy vs. diseased dental implant
• Identify when treatment can be managed in-office vs. when to refer
• Recognize the different types and presentations of peri-implantitis

East Central Dental Society provides these sessions, in partnership with Shafer Leadership Academy, as a member benefit. 
Please register within 24 hours of workshop time. 

Note: A dinner option is available for this session.

Led by: Tisha Geirhart

Caring Personally, While Challenging Directly

This interactive workshop is designed to help dental professionals embrace a leadership style that balances empathy with accountability. Rooted in the framework of Radical Candor, participants will explore how to foster trust-filled relationships that open the door to honest, respectful, and effective feedback with both colleagues and customers. Whether you’re leading a large practice or managing a small team, you’ll walk away with actionable tools to foster a culture where everyone feels supported, challenged, and empowered to perform at their best.

Learning Outcomes

• Discover how to build authentic relationships with colleagues and staff that invite open and constructive dialogue
• Learn the essential steps for creating a culture of candor in your practice—where feedback flows in all directions
• Develop practical strategies for asking for feedback and gain confidence in responding to feedback, even when it’s difficult

East Central Dental Society provides these sessions, in partnership with Shafer Leadership Academy, as a member benefit. 
Please register within 24 hours of workshop time. 

Note: A dinner option is available for this session.

Led by: Dr. Savi Abey

Prosthodontics: Restoring Severe Wear Cases

Restoring teeth with severe wear presents unique challenges that require careful planning, precise execution, and a deep understanding of functional and aesthetic considerations. In this session, Dr. Savi Abey will share clinical insights, treatment strategies, and practical tips for achieving successful outcomes in complex wear cases. This program will be valuable for any dental professional seeking to improve their skills in diagnosing and managing advanced restorative needs.

East Central Dental Society provides these sessions, in partnership with Shafer Leadership Academy, as a member benefit. 

Note: A dinner option is available for this session.

Engage. Connect. Create. 

The Art of Virtual Facilitation is designed to help you lead online sessions that are engaging, focused, and dynamic. Whether you’re guiding a team meeting, training, or group discussion, this workshop will equip you with the tools and techniques to create meaningful virtual experiences. You’ll explore how to manage energy and attention, use interactive tools with purpose, and show up with presence and confidence in a digital space. *This is workshop number three in our facilitation/speaking series of 2025. 

Learning Objectives

1. Learn strategies to increase focus and participation in a group setting

2. Discover how to utilize diverse virtual tools for interactive engagement

3. Boost your presence and savviness as a confident virtual facilitator

Cost: Free for SLA Members. $50 non-member. $30 nonprofits.

Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.

About Our Facilitator

Eilis (A-lish) Wasserman is the Program Director at Shafer Leadership Academy focused on overseeing impactful leadership development programming and creating innovative opportunities for Shafer members.  She has a background as a career coach and facilitator, dedicated to cultivating confidence and inspiring self-discovery. She is an introvert and early career professional advocate, empowering introverts to hone their unique strengths and develop their own career stories.  Eilis believes the most valuable skill that you can learn, and practice is the art of connecting- it’s all about telling our story. Eilis is a freelance coach on The Muse and has worked as a career coach with Ball State University and the University of Michigan. Eilis looks forward to working with you to present your best self wherever you may be in your career journey.

Virtual Workshop 2-Part Series

Session #1:
Wednesday, September 17
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Session #2:
Thursday, September 18
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Ever get tired of those around you denying their role in an incident, pointing fingers at others as to why something happened, or feeling people are just waiting to see if someone else will take care of the mess? Learn practical ways to stop these behaviors while holding yourself and others accountable.

Research proves that employers and employees both place a high value on trust. How do you keep yourself, and others, on track? Do you willingly accept responsibility for your actions and decisions? Learn how to articulate expectations and take ownership of how you fulfill them. A team that is accountable, is a team that is high performing.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand how to improve performance through accountability.
2. Learn to recognize the victim cycle and “Above The Line” behaviors.
3. Apply several tools to help you and others remain accountable.

About Our Facilitator

Susan Rozzi (pronounced Row Z) is the president and owner of Rozzi & Associates, a leadership and organizational development firm. She has a passion for unleashing the potential for greatness in good leaders and believes each person has a unique way of leading. Susan is a leadership coach focusing on leadership development, emotional intelligence insight and career management. Each of her programs starts with the premise that great leadership skills are a product of time, practice and focused development. What makes Susan different is her observant approach and ability to speak grace with her candor. Rozzi graduated from DePauw University and earned an MBA from Indiana University. She is certified in EQi-2.0 and EQ 360 (emotional intelligence assessment) and DiSC, a Certified Real Colors (temperament assessment) facilitator, and a Certified John C. Maxwell coach, trainer and speaker.