CDA Award Winners Award of Merit This award recognizes an individual who has served in an outstanding capacity in the governing or service of CDA over a sustained period of time, or who has made similar outstanding contributions to the dental profession, the dental community or the oral health of Canadians and society at large. As a member of the CDA Board of Directors representing Saskatchewan, Dr. Brian Baker brought thoughtful leadership, practical insight, and a collaborative approach to discussions shaping the future of oral health care in Canada. His commitment to sound governance and professional service strengthened CDA and the broader dental community. Dr. Baker’s leadership reflects a career defined by service. For over 40 years, he provided trusted dental care in Indian Head, Saskatchewan, building lasting relationships with generations of patients. In his rural community, he became a respected mentor and role model whose influence extended far beyond the dental chair. Notably, six of his former patients have gone on to become dentists, citing Dr. Baker as an inspiration. Dr. James Bonar started his impressive career as a Dental Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces, then opened a successful practice in Brandon, Manitoba, offering compassionate, patient-centered care for over four decades. He earned respect through his professional commitment and high care standards. A strong advocate for organized dentistry, Dr. Bonar played a significant leadership role at the provincial and national levels. He served as president of the Manitoba Dental Association (MDA), helping to advance professional standards, peer review processes, and advocacy initiatives. His national service includes 6 years as MDA Voting Delegate to CDA, as well as service on the CDA Audit Committee. Since 2013, Dr. Bonar has also contributed to the CDSPI Board of Directors, supporting the financial well-being of Canadian dentists and their families. Dr. Brian Baker Dr. James Bonar “I started this wonderful journey with the CDA Board 6 years ago. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we did not have the opportunity to get to know each other well. Eventually, we were able to meet in person, along with our new CEO, Dr. Aaron Burry, who brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in working with the federal government. That proved to be invaluable as the government announced the CDCP. Getting to know and work with an incredibly talented, caring, and giving group of people both past and present has made my time with the CDA Board one of the most meaningful highlights of my career.” – Dr. Baker “I’ve often thought about volunteering as being very important, as it allows for collaboration and building friendships, but also ultimately attaining the goals of the organizations that they serve. I’ve urged colleagues and younger dentists to also participate. I think Winston Churchill said, ‘we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.’ And for any small contribution that I’ve made over the years, I’ve been rewarded much more. I thank all of the people over the years that I’ve had the chance to collaborate with, and I thank my parents for being great examples in their own volunteerism. I would like to thank my wife, Sandy, for her support over the years. I couldn’t have done it without you.” – Dr. Bonar “When I began my journey in organized dentistry, I could never have imagined receiving this honour. What I did know was that dentistry could be a powerful force for advocacy, leadership and service. Over the past 25 years, organized dentistry has given me the opportunity to live that belief through my career. My passion has been patient advocacy, particularly for those living with and beyond head and neck cancer, supporting symptom management and head and neck cancer survivorship. This work has continually reinforced how deeply oral health is connected to overall systemic health and why our voices, as dentists, truly matter. CDA and ODA have not only shaped my professional path, but the best version of myself. Through mentorship, collaboration and leadership opportunities, I’ve learned that meaningful change never happens alone. It happens when we listen, when we support each other, and work together with purpose. I share this award with the colleagues, mentors, and friends who believed in me, challenged me, and walked alongside me.” – Dr. Saunders 13 Issue 4 | 2026 |
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