Dentistry Alumni Win Awards at ODA's 158th Annual Session
This year's Ohio Dental Association (ODA) Annual Session featured the presentation of numerous awards at the Callahan Celebration of Excellence, including the ODA Achievement Award; the Marvin Fisk Humanitarian Award; and the N. Wayne Hiatt Rising Star Award -- all of which were given to the following College of Dentistry alumni.
Denise Hering, DDS '85, Receives Achievement Award
Dr. Denise Hering earned her DDS degree from Ohio State's College of Dentistry in 1985, after which she served as a general dentist. In 1999, she started her own practice in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, providing care for patients until her retirement in 2023.
Throughout her career, Dr. Hering has been active in organized dentistry. She was the first female speaker for the Ohio Dental Association's House of Delegates, and she is a past president of the Columbus Dental Society. As a member of the American Dental Association, she served as a delegate and chair of the Working Group on Dental Education, Science, and Related Matters.
Demonstrating her commitment to serving those in need, Dr. Hering has provided dental care as a Give Kids A Smile volunteer, a Dental OPTIONS provider, and a Physician’s Care Connection dental clinic volunteer. She is also a Fellow of the Pierre Fauchard Academy, the International College of Dentists, and the American College of Dentists, all of which are organizations that recognize outstanding professional accomplishments, meritorious service, and a commitment to excellence.
Dr. Hering received the Ohio Dental Association's Achievement Award for her personal and professional commitment to the dental profession and the public’s oral health, and for her service as an ambassador for the dental profession.
George R. Williams, DDS '16, Receives N. Wayne Hiatt Rising Star Award
Dr. George R. Williams earned his DDS degree from Ohio State's College of Dentistry in 2016. He then completed a General Practice Residency at the Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital in Canton, Ohio.
Known for his efforts on behalf of organized dentistry, Dr. Williams was an active member of Ohio State's Pre-Dental Club during his undergraduate years. As a dental student, he was involved in numerous activities as a member of the American Student Dental Association. He continues his commitment to dental professional organizations as a member of the American Dental Association, the Ohio Dental Association, the Stark County Dental Society for which he has served as president, as well as Ohio State’s Dental Alumni Society.
Dr. Williams has also been recognized for his commitment to professional excellence. He received the Stark County Dental Society’s Rising Star Award in 2019, followed by the Incisal Edge 40 Under 40 Award in 2023. Both are honors given to dentists who demonstrate exceptional commitment to service and outstanding professional achievements.
Dr. George R. Williams received the Ohio Dental Association's N. Wayne Hiatt Rising Star Award for his leadership, initiative, strong commitment to volunteerism within the community and the profession; and for his demonstrated promise for future accomplishments within the dental profession."
Roger Haas, DDS '77, MS, Receives Marvin Fisk Humanitarian Award
Dr. Roger Haas received his DDS degree from Ohio State's College of Dentistry in 1977. Continuing his dental professional education, he completed a Master of Science degree in orthodontics from the University of Illinois. He then joined his family's dental practice near Akron, Ohio, providing patient care until his retirement in 2023.
Using his expertise to care for underserved members of the community has been a goal for Dr. Haas since the early days of his career. He and his father, Dr. Andrew Haas, began treating Medicaid patients in 1985. Throughout the 39 years that followed, Dr. Haas estimates that he, his father, and his two brothers who are orthodontists have provided care for several thousand patients in need.
Dr. Haas is grateful for the ability to serve as an orthodontist. He said, "The most rewarding thing about orthodontics is watching the positive change it makes in a person’s life. Before orthodontic treatment, many of our patients are embarrassed to smile because of the appearance of their teeth. It’s amazing to see the dramatic difference when our patients are free to smile without fear."
The Marvin Fisk Humanitarian Award recognizes dentists who work to improve the oral health of people in need of all ages and from all walks of life. It also honors those who give their time and energy, spending hours and personal resources to help fight illness.