ABO Awards

Dr. Albert H. Ketcham

ALBERT H. KETCHAM MEMORIAL AWARD

Dr. Albert H. Ketcham, as one of the pioneers in orthodontics, helped blaze the trail into unexplored realms of its science. As a student and investigator, his wisdom and judgement brought benefits to humanity and general helpfulness to his fellow practitioners. Few have given more generously of time, effort, and ability for the advancement of orthodontics than did Dr. Ketcham.

To commemorate his achievements and to serve as an inspiration to the advancement of orthodontics, the American Board of Orthodontics created The Albert H. Ketcham Memorial Award in 1936. It is awarded annually to an individual who, in the judgment of the ABO Directors, has made a notable contribution to the science and art of orthodontics. Recipients receive an invitation to the ABO Awards Night and the AAO Leadership Appreciation Reception at the AAO Annual Session meeting. In addition, a monetary award of $1,500 will be given to the award recipient.

Nominations for this award are submitted by AAO Constituent Organizations. Learn more: AAO Constituent Organizations Ketcham Award nomination submission process

For Albert H. Ketcham Memorial Award recipients, click here.

 Dr. Dale B. Wade

DALE B. WADE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE IN ORTHODONTICS

The Dale B. Wade Award of Excellence in Orthodontics is bestowed by the Board in the memory of ABO past president, the late Dr. Dale B. Wade, expert clinician, teacher and former chairman of the Ohio State University Department of Orthodontics. The award honors an exemplary senior clinician and Board Certified Orthodontist who demonstrates exceptional dedication to orthodontics through clinical excellence and/or devoted teaching in the image of Dr. Wade. Recipients receive an invitation to the ABO Awards Night at the AAO Annual Session meeting. In addition, a monetary award of $1,500 will be given to the award recipient. 

Nominations for this award are submitted by AAO Constituent Organizations. Learn more: AAO Constituent Organizations Wade Award nomination submission process

For Dale B. Wade Award recipients, click here.

 Dr. Earl E. Shepard (seated) with Dr. George D. Selfridge, past ABO Executive Director

EARL E. AND WILMA S. SHEPARD DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

The Earl E. and Wilma S. Shepard Distinguished Service Award was established to perpetuate Dr. Earl E. Shepard's outstanding accomplishments and to show appreciation for his many contributions as first Executive Director of the ABO. Upon Wilma S. Shepard's death in 1989, the award name was changed to include Mrs. Shepard inasmuch as she was so integrated in her husband's many efforts toward fulfilling the goals of the Board. This award recognizes an individual for outstanding dedication and advancement of the ideals and mission of the American Board of Orthodontics.

Nominations for this award are submitted by the ABO Directors. Candidates are not required to be board certified, but must have qualifications as outlined in the award description. Recipients receive an invitation to the ABO Awards Night at the AAO Annual Session meeting. In addition, a monetary award of $1,500 will be given to the award recipient.

For Earl E. and Wilma S. Shepard Award recipients, click here.

 Dr. O.B. Vaughan and his wife, Virginia

O.B. VAUGHAN SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

The O.B. Vaughan Special Recognition Award was conceived in 1984 and given at the discretion of the Board. This award is given to individuals who have significantly contributed to orthodontic education and furthered the ideals of the American Board of Orthodontics.

Nominations for this award are submitted by the ABO Directors. Candidates are not required to be board certified, but must have qualifications as outlined in the award description. Recipients receive an invitation to the ABO Awards Night at the AAO Annual Session meeting. In addition, a monetary award of $1,500 will be given to the award recipient.

For O.B. Vaughan Award recipients, click here.