The New Jersey Dental Foundation (NJDF) has been established as a non-profit organization affiliated with the New Jersey Dental Association (NJDA) with the primary objective of educating the public about oral health issues; increasing access to dental care services for the public; providing educational scholarships, fellowships, and research grants to advance oral health; conducting oral health research; and supporting other charitable or educational projects relating to the oral health of the public.
Mission Statement: The New Jersey Dental Foundation is established to improve and advance the oral health of all New Jerseyans and enhance the dental profession in New Jersey.
NJDF Grants & Scholarships
The New Jersey Dental Foundation is proud to support initiatives that make a meaningful difference in oral health across our state. Through targeted grants, scholarships, and fellowships, we invest in programs that expand access to care, strengthen community education, and empower the next generation of dental professionals.
If you are passionate about improving oral health in New Jersey—whether through community outreach, innovative care solutions, or workforce development—we invite you to explore our funding opportunities and apply. Together, we can create lasting impact and healthier smiles for all New Jerseyans.
Get Involved with NJDF!
Make a difference in your profession and community by volunteering for a New Jersey Dental Foundation (NJDF) committee or project-based initiative. Whether you're passionate about access to care, education, or community outreach, your time and talent can help drive meaningful change. Join us in advancing oral health for all!
VOLUNTEER INTEREST FORM
Governance
Board of Trustees: The board is responsible for strategic decision-making, financial oversight, and governance.
The NJDF bylaws allow for up to 15 seats on the board. Click here to learn how you can get involved! The NJDF Board nomination deadline is July 15, 2026.
Click here to view the Board of Trustee Expectations Agreement.
2026
| Dr. Zain Ahmed | NJDA Member | Hudson County Dental Society |
| Dr. Janhavi Rane | NJDA Secretary | Mercer Dental Society |
| Dr. Brian Cardillo | NJDA Member | Southern Dental Society |
| Dr. Michal Herman | NJDA Member | Essex County Dental Society |
| Dr. Clifford Lisman | NJDA Member | Essex County Dental Society |
| Dr. Mario Ramos | NJDA Member | Bergen County Dental Society |
| Dr. David Silverstrom | NJDA Member | Essex County Dental Society |
| Dr. Elisa Velazquez | NJDA President | Mon-Ocean County Dental Society |
| Katie Roeder | NJDA Member - Student | Rutgers School of Dental Medicine |
| Monica Lallo | Public Member | Acenda Integrated Health |
| Reva Brennan | NJDA Chief Executive Officer | |
| Orville Morales | NJDA Dir. of Advocacy & Health Affairs |
2025 Officers:
Dr. Mario Ramos, Chair
Dr. Michal Herman, Vice Chair
Dr. Maria Ambrosio, Treasurer
Reva Brennan, Secretary
Committees: The board of trustees shall establish such committees as it sees fit to execute the objectives of the board and the mission of the Foundation.
Structure
Organizational Structure: The New Jersey Dental Foundation is structured in accordance with state and federal regulations governing non-profit organizations, including obtaining tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Staffing: Initially, the Foundation will operate with a lean staff, with key roles such as Executive Director being identified as the Chief Executive Officer/Executive Director of the NJDA. As the Foundation grows, additional staffing needs will be evaluated and determined in alignment with its mission and funding ability.
Programs and Activities
The New Jersey Dental Foundation intends to establish educational campaigns and programs to bring awareness to the importance of good oral health; promote the connection between oral and systemic health; advocate for good oral health policies to improve oral health literacy and outcomes; promote oral health careers; and to do things necessary and appropriate to improve the oral health of all New Jerseyans. The Foundation will provide philanthropic opportunities for New Jersey Dental Association members, and other interested parties, who are committed to advancing oral health in this state.
Financial Plan
Funding Sources: The New Jersey Dental Foundation will seek funding from various sources including individual donations, corporate sponsorships, grants, and fundraising events, and the New Jersey Dental Association.
Budget: A detailed budget outlining projected expenses and revenue sources for the first year of operation will be developed once the Foundation is incorporated and the NJDF Board of Trustees is seated. This budget will be reviewed and approved annually by the board of trustees.
Financial Policies: The Foundation will adhere to strict financial policies and procedures to ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
