AAPD names new officers

Jun 15, 2010

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) announced new officers and trustees inducted during its annual meeting in Chicago May 27.

John R. Liu, D.D.S., president: Dr. Liu has a private practice in Issaquah, WA, and has been an AAPD member for 22 years. Most recently, Dr. Liu has served as the AAPD's vice president (2008-2009), secretary-treasurer (2007-2008), and trustee at large.

Dr. Liu said that in his term of office he will focus on access to care for the underserved and workforce issues. In addition, he said, he will look to increase membership awareness on the importance of giving back to educational institutions that have maintained the strength and relevancy of the pediatric dental profession.

Rhea Haugseth, D.M.D., president-elect: Dr. Haugseth has served as the AAPD's vice president (2009-2010) and in several other positions in her 30 years with the organization. She has a private practice in Marietta, GA. Dr. Haugseth is a fellow of the AAPD and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She also currently serves as president of the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry (2010-2011).

Joel H. Berg, D.D.S., M.S., vice president: Dr. Berg most recently served as the AAPD's secretary-treasurer (2009-2010) and is a past president of Healthy Smiles, Healthy Children: the Foundation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Berg has been a member of the AAPD for 24 years. Currently, Dr. Berg is an associate dean for hospital affairs, chair of the department of pediatric dentistry, and professor and Lloyd and Kay Chapman chair for oral health at the University of Washington. He is also the director of dentistry at Seattle Children's Hospital.