T he College is presently the subject of careful self- analysis. The Executive Committee (EC) is look- ing inward to find ways to increase our effective- ness and to raise our global impact. This involves not only the ICD image and projects, but the functionality of the College governance structure including the International Council, the EC and the College Office staff. It has been nearly 10 years since the decision was made to establish an independent office from which to direct international affairs. How has that worked out? What is the best ap- proach for the next 10 years? In keeping up with the times, changes will be needed regarding routine practices, meet- ing design and communications. The Executive Committee An Engaged Leadership Team Engaging the work of the College with increased inten- sity, the EC meets nearly every other month to address ongoing initiatives while also tending to routine respon- sibilities. These include an in-depth introspection of College governance and image. The EC is determined to engage the Councilors more closely and more of- ten through improved communications and by creat- ing new opportunities to participate during the annual meeting and throughout the year. The EC is also play- ing a bigger role in College management, which has previously been left to the staff. The EC has called for a more formal way of doing business and making deci- sions. All this bodes well for the future of the College. The College EC team met Feb. 15-16, 2017, in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, a location that proved to be reason- ably centralized for those attending from Asia, USA and Israel. The agenda included a strategic planning session and business session, as members concerned them- selves with both the present and the future. The EC ad- opted specific goals for themselves to achieve as a cohe- sive leadership team. Quarterly EC teleconferences will continue, with more frequent meetings anticipated for dis- cussion of time-sensitive topics. This better prepares the EC to make knowledge-based decisions for the College. College Leadership Initiatives Data Proves Upward Trends for College By several measures, the College is heading in the right direction. Councilors analyzed membership charts and financial data during the 2017 annual meeting in Taiwan. The Active Members Chart displays a five-year history of increases in the number of dues-paying members. Not every dental association can say this. The New Fellows Chart displays the number of new Fellows annually from around the world, another increasing trend. Regarding the financial reports, annual surpluses in recent years have allowed the College to strengthen its financial reserves, although they remain below the amount mandated in the Bylaws.All these are just signs, but vital signs. The analysis of statistical data is an important part of the International Council’s responsibilities. Section Membership: A Great Response The required number of Active Fellows needed by a Section to maintain its status is 120 starting December 31, 2018. One year ago, five Sections were “on the bubble”, meaning that if they continued with past trends they would be likely to fall short at the deadline. All five have responded with a surge of new Fellows and presently are on track with all other Sections to reach the required goal. Congratulations, good work, keep pushing! ANNUAL MEETING 2017 International Councilors met for business and strategy in Tawain last November. THE COUNCIL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE OF DENTISTS 8 Jack Hinterman Secretary General