I am pleased to share a summary of actions and highlights from the New Jersey Dental Association’s 156th Annual Session of the House of Delegates, held May 2, 2026, at the Bridgewater Marriott. With a quorum present, the House convened to conduct the association’s official business, consider policy and bylaw matters, elect leadership, and recognize the service of outstanding members.

The House opened under the leadership of Speaker Dr. Edward Tirpack and approved the transactions of the November 12, 2025, Semi-Annual Session, the agenda, standing rules, and prior meeting minutes. Delegates also approved important governance and policy matters, including bylaw amendments addressing dual office holding and dual board position holding, the NJDA Investment Policy, the Policy on the Prohibition of Recording Meetings, and the Social Media Policy. In addition, the House approved a policy opposing the ownership, control, or management of dental practices by dental insurance carriers and dental service plans.

The House also concurred with the Board’s approval to spend up to $150,000 for research and development related to the formation of a subsidiary, while Resolution 26AS-08 was withdrawn by the Board of Trustees. During the necrology report, the House paused to remember seven members who passed away since the last meeting of the House of Delegates. Leadership transitions were also a central part of the session, including the election of Dr. Edward Tirpack as Secretary for the 2026–2027 administrative term and the declaration of the remaining officers in accordance with the bylaws. The position of Speaker of the House remains open and will be addressed by the Board of Trustees during an upcoming meeting.

The session also included updates from organized dentistry leadership, including a video message from ADA President Dr. Richard Rosato, an NJDA update from CEO Reva Brennan, and an NJDPAC report from Dr. Elisa Velazquez. Outgoing President Dr. Amit Vora presented presidential highlights and awards, and the House marked the installation of the 2026–2027 officers and the formal installation of Dr. Antoinette Tauk as the 157th President of the New Jersey Dental Association. The meeting adjourned at 12:17 p.m. with appreciation for all delegates, officers, trustees, staff, and guests whose participation supports the continued strength of the association.

Respectfully submitted,

Janhavi Rane, DDS

Secretary