Stories of Leadership: Women in Dentistry as an office administrator. They taught themselves how to design and build our childhood homes. My parents showed me that you could accomplish much with desire and hard work. I learned early in my life that wisdom is not necessarily related to education, and it can be discovered in individuals with very different backgrounds. Believing in yourself may the first challenge to overcome. I find imposter syndrome occurs more often in women than men. Self-doubt can eat away at you and lead to thoughts of “Do I deserve to be here?” When I was a dental student and later involved in organized dentistry, my friends would say, “Heather, you’re so confident.” I’d share that I had the same doubts as them but tried to always be prepared and translate that into the ability to handle any challenges. I don’t ever want my colleagues or patients to feel that I’m not competent and trustworthy. I intentionally modelled resiliency and problem solving for my children. Those traits were critical for me as the first person in my family who went to university and becoming a dentist. I supported them and provided guidance when asked but wanted them to be confident and self-sufficient. When my son was applying to dental school and my daughter was studying to be a chiropractor, they did the legwork themselves. Their success is their own. A lot of women are apprehensive about taking time away from their families. No one should ever feel that they don’t have time for their loved ones. I was a single parent but still wanted to achieve professional success. I worked 3 days a week when they were young so I could spend more time with them and participate in their activities. At my CDA president’s installation dinner, Chelsea and Evan shared that I was emotionally and physically present for them during their lives. Rather than feeling deprived, I was a role model for what they could achieve. I was deeply moved and still get emotional when I recall that moment. Being a single mother and trying to move forward in organized dentistry was challenging. It is an honour and privilege to be part of the dental profession, and I always wanted to give back. Whenever I have to juggle multiple tasks and commitments, I take a deep breath and take them one at a time. Within organized dentistry, I shared my desire to take on leadership roles. I reminded my colleagues that despite being a busy single mother and practitioner, I had the capacity to do these roles well. Sometimes it’s important to state your intentions and clarify your ability so you can resolve obstacles as they arise. I’m delighted to see the number of incredibly talented women in leadership roles within organized dentistry across the country. It’s also rewarding to see the inclusion of more diverse voices in leadership. I would be incredibly honoured if my career and life has been a helpful model for even one colleague. At the end of the day, I want to be able to say I did my best and made a difference. The independent Alberta Dental Association launched in January 2023. The Alberta Dental Team Summit will be held June 20-22, 2024, at the Calgary Telus Convention Centre. Learn more at: albertadentalassociation.ca Dr. Heather Carr at her American College of Dentists Fellowship ceremony. 34 | 2024 | Issue 3
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