The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) recently hosted its 2026 Leadership Development Symposium in Chicago, bringing together current and emerging leaders in general dentistry for a day-and-a-half program focused on building stronger, more self-aware leaders.
The symposium emphasized a strengths-based approach to leadership development, equipping attendees with practical tools they can immediately apply in their practices, communities and AGD constituent roles.
A highlight of the program was professional leadership coach Chris Failla, who guided participants through the CliftonStrengths framework. Through interactive sessions, attendees explored how understanding their individual strengths can improve communication, enhance team performance and unlock personal energy.
“Your strengths are already there, leadership is about learning how to use them on purpose,” Failla said. “I encourage all AGD members and leaders to take time to understand this framework and apply this self-awareness when working with others and leading people through change.”
The agenda moved participants through a structured leadership journey, beginning with self-awareness and progressing to team impact. Sessions included “Who Am I?” focused on self-leadership and identifying individual talents; “Who Are You?” centered on applying strengths to lead and collaborate with others; and “Who Are We?” which emphasized aligning strengths to achieve shared goals.
Interactive elements, including a strengths scavenger hunt, roundtable discussions and networking opportunities, fostered collaboration and peer learning. Attendees also engaged with AGD leaders during a panel discussion, gaining insight into leadership pathways and opportunities for involvement in organized dentistry.
“Having once chaired the Leadership Development Symposium, I’ve seen firsthand how these in-person experiences shape confident, capable leaders who are ready to serve both their profession and their communities,” said Marc J. Worob, DDS, FAGD, president of the AGD. “Leadership isn’t developed in isolation. It grows through meaningful conversations, shared challenges and the relationships built when we come together face-to-face.”
The symposium concluded with a focus on action, encouraging participants to translate insights into concrete commitments and accountability plans. As AGD continues to invest in leadership development, the 2026 symposium reinforced the importance of cultivating collaborative leaders equipped to shape the future of general dentistry.
