Announcing the new Dr. Mark K. Setter Leadership in Periodontology and Dental Implantology Award

In February 2019, periodontology lost one of its greats - Dr. Mark Setter. Dr. Setter was well-loved and contributed to the field in many ways. He practiced for 30+ years, lectured, and mentored many dentists, periodontists, and students. To honor Dr. Setter's memory, Drs. Jason Souyias, Jason Stoner, and Mitch Godat, along with Mrs. Susan Setter, have worked with the AAP Foundation to establish the Dr. Mark K. Setter Leadership in Periodontology and Dental Implantology Award.

Through the generosity of Dr. Setter’s friends, colleagues, and family, the award has reached its fundraising goal and will be awarded in November 2021. The AAP Foundation is also grateful to BioHorizons, Salvin Dental Specialties, Inc., and the North American Society of Periodontists for their generous support of the award. This annual $10,000 award will recognize a periodontal resident who exemplifies the leadership qualities that Dr. Setter lived and encouraged throughout his lifetime. 

Dr. Jill Bresler, Dr. Setter’s daughter, says, “My dad always credited the scholarships he received early in his periodontal education for paving his first steps toward success. Being able to provide this for the future generation is truly a remarkable way to honor his memory.” Mrs. Susan Setter adds, “I am so grateful that Mark's legacy will continue to positively impact the lives of others. He was an incredible man who touched the hearts of so many, and I am honored to celebrate his life with this award.”

Dr. Mitch Godat shares, “Dr Mark Setter was a statesman for periodontics and practiced the highest quality of care for his patients, while always looking to improve the lives of everyone around him from his patients, office team, his referrals and his community. He was an impressive motivator, master communicator, and inspired people to push beyond what they thought possible. He was a true leader that all admired and aspired to emulate.”

This person must exemplify leadership in our profession by his/her actions in promoting periodontology and dental implantology. Applicants must be full-time periodontal residents as of the application deadline at accredited U.S. periodontal programs and nominated by their periodontal program director. The nominees for this award should demonstrate leadership in promoting periodontology, implantology, advanced treatment planning and case acceptance strategies through mentorship of other students and professionals, making a positive impact on how periodontology and dental implantology is viewed in their school, or by promoting the importance of periodontology and dental implantology in the comprehensive treatment of patients. This is not a clinical award but an award for leadership for promoting all aspects of what it means to be a periodontist. More information can be found here.

Apply for this award here.