Wednesday, April 29, 2026
DESIGNED FOR MDA MEMBER DENTISTS
Speaker: Debra Peters, DDS
Location: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
This engaging, hands-on session helps participants strengthen their understanding of parliamentary procedure within the House of Delegates setting. Through discussion, role-play, and group exercises, attendees will practice applying basic parliamentary procedures to conduct effective meetings, demonstrate proper debate and decorum techniques, and strengthen leadership communication skills. Designed for both new and experienced members, this interactive program builds confidence and promotes fairness, efficiency, and professionalism. A networking hour with light appetizers and a cash bar begins at 4 p.m. with the the one-hour session following at 5 p.m.
Learning objectives:
- Apply basic parliamentary procedures to conduct effective
meetings. - Demonstrate proper debate and decorum techniques.
- Strengthen leadership communication skills.
MDA Foundation Sparkling Smiles Celebration
Time: 6 – 9:30 p.m.
Location: Grand Rapids Public Museum
Mark your calendar for a very special event celebration to recognize and thank MDA Foundation donors, grant recipients, and scholarship recipients. Join us for a sit-down dinner gala, you will walk away knowing more about the Foundation, its donors, its recipients, and how the MDA Foundation is making our state a better place through improved dental health. Hope to see you there! Watch for a save-the-date and email follow-up in your mail.
Questions? Please email the MDA Foundation or call 800-589-2632 and ask for the MDA Foundation.
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Prayer Room
Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: DeVos Place
Fee: FREE
Need a moment of peace and quiet … a place to relax, rest, or even to focus on your spiritual being? Visit the prayer room. It will be available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 30 and Friday, May 1, at DeVos Place.
Welcome Reception!
Time: 4:30 – 6 p.m.
Location: Exhibit Hall C
The MDA will hold a Welcome Reception in the back of Exhibit Hall C on Thursday, April 30, from 4:30 until 6 p.m. All passholders are invited! During the reception, complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be provided, with a cash bar.
Co-Sponsored by MDA Insurance and MDA Services.
Joint American/International College of Dentists and Pierre Fauchard Dinner
Location: Real Seafood
Time: 6:30 – 9 p.m.
The joint American/International College of Dentists and Pierre Fauchard Academy dinner will be held, Thursday, April 30, at Real Seafood. For details and reservations, email Dr. Patricia Boyle.
Friday, May 1, 2026
International College of Dentists Breakfast
Time: 7 a.m.
Location: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
The International College of Dentists Breakfast will take place Friday, May 1, at 7 a.m. at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. For details and reservations, email Dr. Steven Sulfaro.
American College of Dentists Breakfast
Time: 7:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
The American College of Dentists Breakfast is scheduled for Friday, May 1 at 7:30 a.m. at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. For details and reservations, email Dr. Sherill Behnke or call 517-332-8663.
MDAA Student Day and House of Delegates
Time: 8 a.m.
Location: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
The Michigan Dental Assistants Association will host a Student Day on Friday, May 1 from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., and hold the MDAA House of Delegates in the afternoon starting at 2 p.m. Both events take place at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. For more information email Dr. Ona Erdt.
Prayer Room
Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: DeVos Place
Fee: FREE
Need a moment of peace and quiet … a place to relax, rest, or even to focus on your spiritual being? Visit the prayer room. It will be available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 30 and Friday, May 1, at DeVos Place.
University of Michigan Alumni Luncheon
Time: 12:30 – 2 p.m.
Location: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
Please join your fellow Michigan Alumni for a complimentary luncheon during the 2026 MDA Annual Session in Grand Rapids! For details and reservations, email Gretchen Hannah.
Course EV02 | Women in Dentistry Event — Own Your Swag: Become Unstoppable in Your Achievements and Unshakeable in Your Confidence to Make an Unforgettable Mark on the World
Speaker: Amelia “Mimi” Brown
Time: 1:15 – 2:45 p.m.
Want to be seen as confident, poised, and powerful? When doing a good job isn’t enough, it’s time to elevate your presence. This high-energy, hands-on session will help you communicate your value, boost credibility, and project confidence in every interaction. Through practical strategies and interactive exercises, you’ll learn how to stand out, connect authentically, and influence with impact.
Learning objectives:
- Enhance professional credibility and visibility.
- Engage effectively by adapting communication styles.
- Build confidence through networking, negotiation, and personal presence planning.
Table Clinics
Time: 4 – 6 p.m.
Location: Exhibit Hall C
See the listing of table clinics in the MDA Event App (available in early 2026) or the Annual Session website. Table Clinics will take place Friday, May 1, from 4 – 6 p.m.
EV03 | New Dentist Network Lounge
DENTIST ONLY EVENT
Time: 4:30 – 6 p.m.
Location: IDC, Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
This is a great time for new dentists to network, relax, and enjoy their colleagues all in one place together. There will be food, drinks, and camaraderie. Attendance is FREE when you register for a one-day pass or full conference package. Registration is required.
EV04 | Friday Night Social Event — Runway on Tap Event
Time: 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Location: DeVos Place, Grand Rapids
Location: DeVos Place, Grand Rapids
Raise a glass and celebrate with MDA President Dr. Cheri Newman at Runway on Tap! This high-energy evening blends Grand Rapids’ craft-beer culture with runway flair for a one-of-a-kind celebration of style and smiles. Sip your favorite drink, cheer on your colleagues as they strut their signature looks, and soak up the fun, laid-back atmosphere that makes this event a crowd favorite. Whether you’re walking the runway or raising a toast from the sidelines, you’ll be part of a night overflowing with laughter, confidence, and community. Serving looks — one pour at a time! Registration is required.
Co-sponsored by Macomb District Dental Society, MDA Insurance, and MDA Services.
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Pierre Fauchard Academy Luncheon
Time: 12 – 1 p.m.
Location: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
The Pierre Fauchard Academy will hold a luncheon at 12 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. For details and reservations, email Dr. Ben Underwood.