Esteemed colleagues and friends,

It is an honor and privilege to stand before you as the president of the Florida Association of Periodontists. This organization holds special significance for me, as I am a second-generation member following in the footsteps of my uncle, Dr. Robert Thousand Jr., the legend is here with us today!  

I never initially envisioned myself in this role. However, after “encouragement” from several mentors, including Dr. James Wilson, Dr. Oscar Morejon, and many others in this room, I embraced this position out of a deep belief in our obligation to serve and my commitment to supporting this organization. 

The FAP has a rich history of fostering excellence in periodontics, and I am committed to continuing this legacy in the year ahead. My primary goal during my tenure is to ensure the delivery of high-quality education while maintaining the financial health and sustainability of our organization. A strong and stable association allows us to focus on what truly matters—supporting our members and improving patient outcomes.

In the coming year, I will work diligently to provide continuing education opportunities that will benefit us in three key ways: 

1. Promoting Patient Health: Our foremost priority is delivering superior health outcomes for our patients. We will focus on education that keeps us at the forefront of periodontal care and innovation.
2. Supporting Independent Practice Growth: Private practice is the backbone of our profession. I am dedicated to helping Florida's periodontists strengthen their practices by addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities unique to our field.
3. Enhancing Clinical Skills: To remain competitive, we must continually refine our skills and push ourselves and our teams to new levels of excellence. Our educational initiatives will challenge and inspire us to elevate our practices.

Together, we will strengthen periodontics across Florida and uphold our reputation as leaders in dental health. I am grateful for your trust and look forward to working alongside you to achieve these goals.

In line with this vision, I am excited to introduce our speaker for the summer meeting, Dr. Richard Miron. Dr. Miron needs no introduction, as he is a globally recognized leader in biomaterials. With over 350 peer-reviewed articles, 11 textbooks, and recognition as the youngest dentist to be named among the top 100 CE providers in the country by Dentistry Today, his expertise is unparalleled.

Dr. Miron’s presence will bring significant value to our group, particularly through his PRF Edu company. To enhance our offerings, we will provide an opportunity for your team members to receive hands-on training in phlebotomy, the creation of sticky bone, and the handling of autologous blood products in both surgical and esthetic applications. If time permits, you may even bring your significant others for a little facial augmentation—perhaps a small reward for their patience with our demanding schedules!

In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Dr. Robert Thousand Jr., my colleagues, and my mentors in the FAP. Your clinical expertise and guidance, both solicited and unsolicited, have shaped my journey. It is a privilege to serve this association, and I look forward to a year of growth, collaboration, and success.

Thank you.