As I prepare to pass the baton to the next leader of the American Board of Endodontics (ABE), I would like to take this opportunity to provide a progress report on the important work of the ABE, and to reflect on my personal journey with the organization.

Your American Board of Endodontics carries on with its pursuit to innovate and advance its mission. We continue to successfully host our Oral Exams at the Sheraton Westport Plaza in St. Louis.  This facility provides an excellent setting for both our candidates and examiners, and receives positive feedback for its convenience and accessibility.

In 2024 alone, the ABE examined 201 Oral Exam candidates, reviewed 147 Case History Portfolios, and administered the Written Exam to 232 examinees through the Pearson Vue testing centers. After careful consideration, the Board elected to administer the Case History Exam once per year starting in 2024.  I am happy to report that, with the help of our past Directors, we were able to evaluate all the portfolios submitted during the first annual exam.  The Oral Exams continue to be administered twice a year in March and October, and the Written Exam is given annually over one day in May.

And speaking of our successful 2024 exams, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the dedication, hard work and contribution of our past Directors, who continue to volunteer as examiners for both the Case History and Oral Exams. Their commitment to our profession is truly inspiring. A huge thank you to you all. We could not accomplish what we do without your help.

As the number of ABE Diplomates rise, our number of Diplomates who require Recertification rise as well.  110 Diplomates completed their Recertification requirement in 2024.  The ABE continues to monitor the requirements set forth by the National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards (NCRDSCB) so that all aspects of our processes comply, including requirements for the Recertification of Board-certified endodontists.

ABE has also made significant strides in updating examination guidelines and manuals of operation for future Board members and staff. All of this has been achieved while managing the demands of four examinations per year, conducting a Job Task Analysis with our psychometric organization, and maintaining constant communication with candidates, Diplomates, and other stakeholders. All of this would not to be possible without the incredible support and dedication of our staff: Ivana, Patricia, Alana and Marcela. Their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts have been instrumental in our success and for keeping me on track for the past six years…especially during this last as President. The ABE would not have accomplished anything without their help, so a heartfelt thank you. You ladies are true rockstars!

The past six years with the ABE have truly been the highlight of my professional career, and I am thankful to all those who supported me in my endeavor to become a director. I still remember the phone call I received in 2018 from Dr. Tim Kirkpatrick, the ABE Secretary at the time, asking if I would like to be a part of the Board. I vividly remember screaming out loud (sorry, Tim). I thought I was dreaming, but instead it was a dream come true.

I made a promise to my Program Director, Dr. Jim Johnson, that I would become Board certified after I graduated from the endodontic program at the University of Washington. In 2012, I fulfilled that promise by becoming a Diplomate of the ABE and receiving my pin in Boston, where AAE25 will be held this year. For me, my ABE journey will culminate in a full circle moment, as I have the privilege to hand out recognition pins to the 116 new Diplomates that will be honored at Grossman Ceremony at AAE25 Boston!

I extend my heartfelt congratulations and thanks to our 116 new ABE Diplomates. Your achievements are a testament to your hard work and dedication to the specialty. Congratulations to you, your friends, and your families. This is among the highest number Diplomates to be honored at the Annual Meeting; second only to 150 Diplomates honored in Montreal in 2019.

I would like to recognize your ABE leaders:  Dr. Meetu Kohli, Dr. Joseph Dutner, Dr. Gary Myers, Dr. Scott Doyle, Dr. Keith Boyer, Dr. Sami Chogle, Dr. Anibal Diogenes, Dr. Paul Falcon, Dr. Frank Portell, Dr. Renato Silva, Dr. Neville McDonald, and Dr. Brad Johnson.  I am confident they will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the ABE. Thank you to my colleagues who have served alongside me on this Board. I am truly honored and lucky to have the chance to serve with you.

For all the Diplomates reading this, I urge you to consider serving on the Board. It is a significant commitment, but an incredibly rewarding experience.  To become a nominee for ABE Director, please visit the ABE “Self Nomination” webpage for details.  The process begins with an online self-nomination form, so go ahead and nominate yourself. The application process is extremely convenient and straight forward.  The Board will review each application prior to voting.

As I conclude my journey as President, I am filled with a sense of fulfillment and optimism for the future. The dedication and passion of our directors, staff and members have always been the cornerstone of our success, and I have no doubt that the ABE will continue to flourish. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this incredible journey. Remember, the ABE is always here to support you, and we are rooting for your success (no pun intended).

To all ABE candidates currently in the process:  Let’s get those cases and oral exams completed so we can surpass the highest total of new Diplomates at AAE26. What are you waiting for?  Let’s get this done so you can begin your own journey as a Diplomate of the ABE.  Where will it take you?

Avina Paranjpe, BDS, MS, MSD, PhD
President, American Board of Endodontics