Welcome to the first edition of ASTDD Update, a new, monthly snapshot of what’s happening across our organization and our membership. Each month, we’ll share key announcements, organizational news, member and staff highlights, and updates on our strategic framework to help you stay connected to the work shaping ASTDD’s future.

As we continue to evolve, strengthen our connections, and build on our shared mission, keeping you informed and engaged is more important than ever. We hope this new update makes it easier to stay in the loop and see how we’re moving forward together. 



Look for the ASTDD Update on the last Wednesday of each month. Thank you for being part of the ASTDD community!

Making Connections at the NNOHA Annual Conference

We were excited to connect with members and partners at this week's National Network for Oral Health Access (NNOHA) conference. We promoted our new website, resources, and the upcoming National Oral Health Conference. Here are a few snapshots from the event.

Executive Director Matt Zaborowski and Dr. Debony Hughes, ASTDD Board President-Elect

Executive Director Matt Zaborowski, Sarah Stream, and Andrea Haymore, Association for Dental Safety Executive Director

Executive Director Matt Zaborowski and Cheryl Parker, NNOHA Executive Director

ASTDD Website Transformation: Phase 2 is Underway

Earlier this month, we were excited to launch the first phase of ASTDD’s updated website. This interim site includes a redesigned homepage, improved navigation, simplified experience, and a new look and feel that better reflects who ASTDD is today and where we’re headed. 

Phase 2 is now underway, with plans for a new Member Hub, easier access to ASTDD resources and tools, and enhanced opportunities to connect and engage. We’ll share progress and new content along the way as we work toward full website completion in January 2027. 



Members will help shape what comes next. Beginning in November, a member workgroup will provide input on:

• Usability and navigation
• Priority resources and tools
• Member Hub features and interactivity
• Future website priorities

Want to learn more? Watch these recordings for more information about the website transformation. Note: You need to register and enter the passcodes to view the recordings.

• ASTDD Spotlight (passcode: CV?KLS0a)
• Member Monday with Matt (passcode: M!Z!2^9g)

We welcome feedback from all members at any time. Email us at info@ASTDD.org.

Charting the Future: Preparing for Implementation in 2027

Progress continues on ASTDD’s strategic framework, Charting the Future: ASTDD’s Purpose, Vision, & Roadmap for Impact. 

We heard your request for an at a glance look at the framework! Check out the new Strategic Map.

As you may recall, 2026 is our “readiness period” for the new framework. We are now in Phase 4: Test & Refine, continuing to gather feedback, refine new structures and processes, and finalize plans to support a strong and sustainable transition into 2027.

The framework centers on three strategic goals:

• Member Participation and Engagement: Strengthen member participation, shared learning, coordination, and collective action.
• Leadership: Build the skills and capacity of current and emerging leaders to advance policies, systems, and environmental changes that improve oral health.
• Organizational Excellence and Sustainability: Foster inclusivity and invest in the systems and resources needed to remain a trusted, high-performing national partner.

These goals will guide the development of annual work plans that identify specific initiatives, owners, timelines, resources, and measurable objectives.

How can you get involved?

1. Explore the strategic map at a glance to see how the goals fit together.
2. Visit the Strategic Direction webpage for additional information
3. Complete a worksheet to help you reflect on the framework and identify opportunities to contribute to our shared success.