The AAO is seeking applicants to serve as our representative to the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Dr. Glenn Sameshima, the current AAO commissioner, will complete his term in the fall of 2027. Apply by June 28, 2026 for consideration to serve a four-year term as the next AAO CODA commissioner.
CODA is the national accrediting agency for dental and dental-related post-secondary education programs. These programs include predoctoral (DDS/DMD) dental education programs, advanced dental education programs and allied dental education programs.
Criteria for AAO Appointment to Serve as CODA Commissioner
• Active, Life or Retired member of the American Dental Association (ADA)
• Board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics
• Will NOT simultaneously serve as a principal officer of another organization within CODA’s primary community of interest. Principal officer is defined as the final decision maker of an organization (e.g., president, president-elect, immediate past president, secretary, treasurer, etc.), and members of any executive committee that has decision making authority and does not require confirmation by a board/house of delegates. A primary community of interest is defined as any organization that has a role in appointing commissioners, including the Regional Clinical Testing Agencies.
• Commit to one four-year term
• Comply with CODA policies and procedures
• Attend CODA meetings (in-person and virtual) including committee meetings
• Participate in the CODA orientation/training program
• Objectively evaluate educational programs in areas of curriculum, faculty, facilities, student evaluation and outcomes assessment
Selection and Orientation Schedule for the New Commissioner
• July 7, 2026: AAO trustees conduct evening interviews with candidates
• July 15, 2026: AAO Board of Trustees completes selection of new commissioner and submits the individual’s information to CODA
• August 2026: CODA reviews AAO appointment
• Fall 2026: Appointee receives an appointment letter from CODA and begins training
• November 1, 2027: New commissioner term begins
If you meet the appointment criteria and find the schedule workable, submit your CV and a short statement of why you would like to be our new CODA Commissioner, and any other materials that you believe to be appropriate for the committee to review.
Apply for the CODA Commissioner Appointment
Prospective applicants who have questions are welcome to contact AAO President-Elect Dr. Richard Williams, AAO CODA Commissioner Nomination Committee Chair, at [email protected].
