MDHA’s MHOD

Every year the Michigan Dental Hygienists’ Association (MDHA) holds their annual Michigan House of Delegates (MHOD).  I had the opportunity to attend two years in a row!  Last year it was held in Grand Rapids, MI and this year it was held in Dearborn, MI.  MHOD is a chance for each local dental hygiene component, (Washtenaw, Detroit, Oakland, etc.), to come together to revise and discuss new bylaws for hygienist in the State of Michigan.  Also, elections are held to elect MDHA members into open executive council positions.

As a student, one may attend as a Delegate or Alternate.  This is an excellent opportunity for students to see firsthand how the legislative process operates.  Usually, the University of Michigan will send at least 2 representatives from each hygiene class.   This year since the session was closed; we were able to have 3 or 4 representatives from each class!  The session is very professional and business oriented.  Students from various dental hygiene programs are able to attend and sit with their local components.  The first year I attended, I was selected as a Delegate; and this year I was an Alternate.

I truly enjoyed the experience because I gained a better understanding of the politics involved with moving the profession of dental hygiene forward.  The more individuals participating, the more support the organization has when working with the government.  Also, I gained a better understanding of the importance of becoming a member of my professional organization.    As a member MDHA and ADHA, I have a voice in making change for hygienists, numerous networking opportunities, and an unlimited number of mentors.  I am looking forward to the advances in the profession of Dental Hygiene!

Side Note**** This year’s MDHA President is Brenda Marriott RDH,BS!  Mrs. Marriott will be coming to speak to our SADHA members this December and we are very excited to have her come!

Elizabeth Easter is a DH4 dental hygiene student, originally from Detroit, MI.  She obtained her B.S. degree in Biology from Howard University in 2007.  Elizabeth has a passion for community development, and plans to work in community dentistry in the future.