CDA Award Winners For 35 years, Dr. Norman Vankoughnett has provided comprehensive, high-quality dental care to the residents of Central Butte, Saskatchewan, ensuring that patients in a rural community have access to the same level of care and innovation found in larger centres. His career reflects a commitment to clinical excellence, with service enhancements via technology and broader treatment choices for patients. Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Vankoughnett has been a dedicated mentor and advocate for the profession. Through his service on the Council of the College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan, he has contributed to the advancement of dental policy and professional standards. His leadership and guidance have earned the respect of peers across the province. A strong supporter of community initiatives, charitable organizations, and public health programs, Dr. Vankoughnett has become a trusted figure whose influence spans generations of patients and families. Dr. Kelly Regula and Dr. Lori Simoens were recognized for their exceptional leadership, mentorship, and dedication to strengthening Manitoba’s dental community. As past co-chairs of the Winnipeg General Practice Study Club, they created a supportive environment where early-career dentists could build confidence, refine their clinical skills, and embrace evidence-based, patient-centred care through workshops, case discussions and peer learning. Both graduates of the University of Manitoba (U of M), they have each made significant contributions to the profession. Dr. Regula combines clinical expertise with a passion for education as a clinical instructor at the U of M and has extended her commitment to service through dental mission trips in Cambodia, Ecuador, Nicaragua and Uganda. Dr. Simoens has demonstrated outstanding leadership as co-owner of Waverley Dental Centre while also contributing as a lecturer, facilitator and active member in professional organizations. Together, they have inspired and supported countless colleagues, leaving a lasting legacy of collaboration, mentorship, and excellence within the profession. Dr. Norman Vankoughnett Dr. Kelly Regula “I’m truly honoured to receive this award and want to give thanks to those who have made it possible. Thank you to my wife, Madonna and daughters, Eva and Ariel, for accepting the time organized dentistry takes away from family. Thank you to Dr. Craig Smith, president of the NLDA, Lesley Patey, executive director, and the nominating committee, for taking the time to submit my name for this award. Finally, I thank all of you in organized dentistry. You represent maybe 10% of the dentists in Canada but do so much for the other 90%. I am very pleased to be one small cog in such a valuable group. Thank you for what each of you contribute to our profession.” – Dr. Redmond “Receiving this award is both humbling and meaningful because it represents the collective support of many people who have guided, challenged, and encouraged me throughout my career. I want to recognize my incredibly talented and dedicated co-workers and staff who constantly strive for the best for our patients. I’m especially grateful to my colleagues and mentors whose guidance pushed me to grow and improve. Working alongside such dedicated and inspiring individuals has made this experience rewarding. This award inspires me to continue striving for excellence, to give back where I can and to approach every opportunity with dedication and integrity. Thank you once again for this recognition. It truly touched my heart.” – Dr. Vankoughnett “The dental profession has given me so many mentors who challenged me, colleagues who supported me, and opportunities to contribute beyond my own practice. One of the most meaningful expressions of that commitment has been co-chairing the General Practice Study Club in Manitoba with my dental partner and dear friend, Dr. Lori Simoens. Together, we created a space rooted in collegiality, curiosity, and mentorship, where dentists could learn openly from one another and strengthen their sense of professional community. Dentistry thrives when we support one another, share knowledge generously, and create environments where growth feels safe and collaborative. I am proud to contribute to a profession that values those principles. Thank you again to CDA and to the many colleagues who make dentistry such a strong and connected community.” – Dr. Kelly Regula Mentorship Advancement Award This award recognizes dentists or dentist-led groups who have improved the sense of community among Canadian dentists through volunteer mentorship and shared learning. Dr. Lori Simoens 15 Issue 4 | 2026 |
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