9 Interview with our International President H ow did you become a member of the dental profession? I grew up in rural America as the daughter of a tenant tobacco farmer. We were considered poor by most standards, yet my mother believed strongly that hard work and a solid education would give her children better alternatives and pave the way to success. Even though I was number one in my high school graduating class, no one promoted being a doctor to a female. I first became a hygienist and took studio art courses at night. My employer dentist–also an artist–convinced me dentistry was a marriage of art and science, so I applied to dental school, and the rest is history. Why did you choose to become in- volved in ICD? ICD chose me, or rather one of its leaders chose me, to participate in a project. Even though I was a member of two other dental honorary organizations, ICD is the only one which asked for my participation. I thrive on being involved and was impressed with the dedication of ICD local leaders and those of the Section. I actually became an International Councilor before I became a Regent of my Section. This sequence has provided me a more global perspective and an understanding that one of the most powerful aspects of ICD is its International Footprint. What do you consider your greatest professional ac- complishment? Mentoring young adults who want to be dentists, both as a private practitioner and as a dental school faculty member, has given me the most joy and the greatest sense of achievement. I have always taught by example in my office and in the school clinic to demonstrate my passion for ethical decision making and detailed clinical technique. Five of my former employees are dentists, and one is an ICD Fellow. To witness those who I’ve mentored fulfill their own professional accomplishments is truly inspiring. What is the significance of being the first female International President of the ICD? First, I am honored to be President of this outstanding organization. Being installed as President is another symboloftheinclusivityofICD.Werepresent122countries, embracing all religions and ethnicities, yet females are in a minority in leadership positions. I have been the first female President of three other dental organizations. With each group I have focused my energies on the unique needs of the organizations and my role in achieving their goals. Being the first female never drives me, yet I do hope my performance demonstrates qualified leaders should be given equal opportunity to serve in the top echelons irrespective of gender. And, of course, I hope my positions in ICD will inspire other female ICD Fellows to become more active in our organization. What future challenges concern you for ICD? I see more opportunities than obstacles as I look toward our Centennial Year. I am following many strong leaders, and we have an exceptional Executive Committee and office staff. We are working with professional facilitators to renew our Strategic Plan to build on our successes. We hope to accelerate our developing strategy with meaningful goals to assist you in serving others and to position ICD to be successful for the next one hundred years. Funding is always a challenge as members request more projects, yet want low dues which creates pressure for the elusive non-dues revenue. The new generations of dental professionals, who will be our future ICD Fellows, expect their organizations to have meaningful participation in serving others and improving the world. Our global communications will become more important as we listen and learn to serve our Fellows and our global communities. With your active support, the future is definitely bright for ICD! 2019 College President Bettie McKaig need one more line Dr. Bettie McKaig ”I see more opportunities than obstacles.” THE COUNCIL THE GLOBE 2019 7