The International College of Dentists (ICD) was first envisioned in 1920 by Dr. Louis Ottofy and Dr. Tsurukichi Okumura during a farewell gathering in Tokyo, Japan. Officially established in 1928, the ICD has since honored dentists who exemplify outstanding professional achievement, meritorious service, and a commitment to advancing dentistry for the betterment of humanity. The organization’s core values—leadership, recognition, humanitarianism, and education—reflect its dedication to high ethical standards, global collaboration, and the promotion of dental knowledge.
Fellowship in the ICD is a prestigious honor, extended only by invitation following a rigorous peer-review process. It recognizes dentists who have demonstrated exceptional service, integrity, and contributions to the profession. Being inducted as a Fellow signifies a career marked by ethical excellence and a commitment to elevating dentistry worldwide.
The 2025 ICD USA Section Annual Meeting and Convocation took place September 11–13 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego, California. This vibrant event, held in partnership with the San Diego County Dental Society, featured continuing education programs, networking opportunities, and celebratory gatherings. Highlights included:
- A robust Continuing Education Program on September 11–12, offering workshops and lectures on the latest advancements in dental science and practice
- The Fellowship Orientation Program on September 12, preparing inductees for their new roles within the ICD. Our very own Ronald E. Fritz, DDS, MPH, gave a speech titled “The Joy of Service,” discussing service as a whole and our incredible history, including our very first dental mission in 1955 with founding faculty member Howard Marin, DDS.
- The Convocation Ceremony and Celebration Dinner on September 13 honors newly inducted Fellows and fosters camaraderie among dental professionals.
Among those inducted were LLUSD Alum and Faculty:
- Michael Boyko, DDS’75A, MPH, FICD
- Thomas Fitzpatrick, DDS’06, FICD
- Allen Job, DDS’03, MS, MPH, MS, FICD
- Shivani Karre, BDS, MS’19, FICD
- Mark Porco, DDS'88, FICD
- Arthur Wu, DDS'86, FICD
These individuals were nominated by Ronald Fritz, DDS’72, MPH, FICD, and recognized for their significant contributions to dentistry. Their induction was officiated by ICD Global President Dr. Ian Doyle (Canada) and USA Section President Dr. Eliot L. Paisner, who presented each Fellow with a commemorative plaque and engraved key.
