LAUNCH welcomed over 100 third-year and fourth-year dental students who represented more than 50 dental schools across the country for an all-expenses-paid, two-day event held in Chicago. The goal of LAUNCH was to propel students’ future dental careers forward by providing them with opportunities to develop their leadership skills, network with colleagues, and create effective flight plans for their future.
In between sessions and speakers, students had the chance to experience Chicago for themselves. From networking on the SkyDeck of the Willis Tower, to enjoying a slice of Giordano’s deep-dish and ending the night on a private dinner cruise along the Michigan river, students really got a sense of the city. When asked what their favorite aspect of LAUNCH was, one student said, “Just being able to talk to so many dentists and dental students from all over the country. The boat cruise was awesome! The presentations, interviews and the Pie in the Sky event, it was all great.”
LAUNCH was much more than just a chance to explore the city of Chicago, however. Students got the chance to learn from different dental professionals throughout the sessions, including the keynote address from Heartland Dental founder, Dr. Rick Workman. Other presenters included Author, Lecturer & President of Sanborn & Associates, Inc., Mark Sanborn and award-winning improv group, The Second City Works.
During the event, Ronny Castillo, a dental student from Boston University said, “I’m having a blast here in Chicago with Heartland Dental. If you’re into getting better as a leader, as a clinician, as a person and if you want to stand out in your community and drive positive change, then this is the place to be. Heartland Dental will guide you through the steps to accomplish what you want in your life. Not only professionally but as a person as well.”
Continuing education has always been a pillar of Heartland Dental from the beginning, and that is why we are so thrilled to have included the LAUNCH leadership summit in our ongoing mission to offer dentists of all career levels the tools and knowledge to succeed in the ever-evolving industry. During his keynote address, Dr. Workman said, “The biggest barrier to new learning is old learning. As future leaders in dentistry, you must challenge yourself to think outside the box. Leadership requires us to work hard, smart and most importantly, together.”
To see some of LAUNCH’s highlights, check out our recap video. If you are interested in learning more about the continuous support that we provide our supported doctors and their teams, visit jobs.heartland.com.