Daniel J. Buksa, JD, CAE, executive director of the Chicago-based Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), has been recertified as a Certified Association Executive, the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) recently announced. The CAE is the highest professional credential in the association industry.

 To earn the CAE designation, an applicant must have experience in nonprofit organization management, complete at least 100 hours of specialized professional development, pass a rigorous examination in association management and pledge to uphold a code of ethics. To maintain the credential, CAEs must continue professional development and activities in association and nonprofit management. More than 4,600 association professionals hold the CAE credential. The CAE Program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

 "For nearly 30 years, Dan has been committed to the leadership and growth of AGD," said AGD President Marc Worob, DDS, FAGD. "His recertification reflects the same commitment to learning and the ethical leadership he brings to AGD every day. Our members, their patients and the staff are better off because of it."

 Buksa has held several key roles during his long tenure with AGD. He joined the organization as advocacy manager in 1997 and served as director of general dentistry representation until 2006, when he became associate executive director of public affairs. In that role, he was instrumental in shaping AGD’s policies and public presence.

 Buksa earned a law degree from Valparaiso University in 1993. He served in the U.S. Army from 1984 to 1988.

 Outside AGD, Buksa is an elected trustee on the board of the Catholic Order of Foresters, a midsize fraternal life insurance company. He is also active in the American Legion, where he serves as post judge advocate and previously served as commander.

 Buksa and his wife have five children.