The NAN is the vehicle or infrastructure through which AADR/ADEA will carry out our joint advocacy and mobilize our members to take legislative action.  The NAN consists of:

AADR Advocates (formerly known as Cohorts)
ADEA Advocates
Dental Institute Volunteer Advocacy Coordinators (VAC)

This "grassroots” network will be utilized to educate legislators and the public on a variety of legislative initiatives affecting oral health, dental education, and dental research.  “AADR advocates” (formerly cohorts) and “ADEA advocates” form the foundation of the NAN and work with the AADR and ADEA as well as with Dental Institute Volunteer Advocacy Coordinators to educate and inform federal, state, and local government officials about the accomplishments and needs of the dental education and research communities.  The “national advocates” are concerned researchers and educators who will act on a moment’s notice to communicate with their elected officials as issues unfold each year. 

The NAN will be invited to participate in oral health “grassroots” advocacy events such as the AADR/ADEA Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, and Field Advocacy Workshops hosted by AADR and ADEA at dental institutions around the country.  The goal is to create a cadre of advocates who are knowledgeable and articulate on the issues and provide one unified, consistent voice for dental education and research.