Strategic Plan

“The Strategic Plan will guide the CDS as we move forward and continue to offer member programs and benefits that are as relevant today and in the future as they have been in the past.”
– Michael Durbin, 2023 CDS President
The Chicago Dental Society represents the interests of dentists, advances the science and art of dentistry, and advocates for improved oral health for all.

Vision Statement
We are the respected leader in dental continuing education.

Mission Statement
We create and deliver high-quality, innovative programs that promote the art and science of dentistry and are responsive to the interests and needs of our members, the dental profession and the public we serve.

Our Values & Goals

Commitment to Growth & Excellence

We prioritize education, diversity, collaboration, and leadership while advancing strategic initiatives to strengthen our community and impact.

Our Core Values:

Education
Providing lifelong learning opportunities for professional growth.

Diversity
Embracing inclusivity to strengthen the profession and patient care.

Collegiality
Fostering a supportive and collaborative dental community.

Leadership
Inspiring innovation and advocacy in oral health care.

Strategic Goals:

Expand membership recruitment, retention and development efforts
Enhance communication and promotion of benefits to members and non-members
Sustain and build value of the Midwinter Meeting and CDS educational programs
Diversify revenue sources
Provide opportunities for and development of leadership

Strategic Milestones

We are focused on growing membership, enhancing communication, expanding event attendance, and strengthening financial sustainability to drive long-term success.

Membership Committee:

2024 – 2025

  • Increase renewal/retention rate to 92%
  • Increase market share to 54%
    • 2025 – 2026
    • Increase renewal/retention rate to 95%
    • Increase market share to 55%

    Communications Committee:

    2024 – 2025

    • Redesign CDS website
    • Redesign Midwinter Meeting landing page
    2025 – 2026

    • Increase renewal/retention rate to 95%
    • Increase market share to 55%

    Dental Meeting Committee:

    2024 – 2025

    • Midwinter Meeting attendance at 22,000 with 5,000 dentists
    2025 – 2026

    • Midwinter Meeting attendance at 26,000

    Finance Committee:

    2024 – 2025

    • New revenue streams identified; pilot programs launched
    2025 – 2026

    • Non-meeting revenue grows to 20% of budget
    • CDS has balanced budget