Dr. Raymond Cohlmia has resigned from his position as ADA's executive director. The resignation of Cohlmia, who has served in the role since November 2021, is effective immediately, according to a press release dated February 8 from the ADA.
Dr. Raymond Cohlmia. Image courtesy of the ADA.
Dr. Elizabeth Shapiro, JD, has been named interim executive director and will immediately assume leadership of ADA operations while the board conducts its search for a permanent replacement.
"The ADA, guided by its vision and mission, is committed to forging the future of dentistry as the leading advocate for oral health," ADA President Dr. Brett Kessler said in the press release.
During Cohlmia's tenure as executive director, he oversaw the formation of the ADA Forsyth Institute and expanded collaborative relationships with the dental industry and academia.
"I am grateful for the incredible opportunity to have served and been part of the transformational change at the ADA," Cohlmia said in the press release. "I've never been more excited about the future of the American Dental Association."
In an Instagram message posted by the ADA, people are questioning Cohlmia's quick departure from the association's top position.
DrCanada1 commented, "I've known Ray for 35 years. He doesn't ever just abandon his role. Something else is at play here. Wonder what you've left out of your message?!?"
Vince Benivegna questioned the ADA's status, as well as its future, writing, "What is happening with all Ray's initiatives like Strategic Forcasting Committee, Sales Force and Fonteva? What is the current ADA membership market share? What is the overall health of the ADA? This is big news. Quite the shake up. What's the plan going forward?"
