The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) has announced the appointment of Jessica Y. Lee, DDS, MPH, PhD, as its next chief executive officer, effective June 1, 2026.
Dr. Lee is internationally recognized for her leadership in pediatric dentistry, health policy and academic innovation. She currently serves as the William M. Demeritt Distinguished Professor of Pediatric Dentistry and senior associate dean for faculty affairs and leadership development at the University of North Carolina Adams School of Dentistry.
Her involvement with AAPD spans nearly three decades. Most recently, she served as AAPD president from 2020 to 2021, contributing to major initiatives focused on education, advocacy and access to care.
Dr. Lee’s career includes numerous national honors, including the U.S. Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the AAPD Merle C. Hunter Leadership Award and the AAPD Pediatric Dentist of the Year Award. Her work has focused on improving access to dental services for children, strengthening Medicaid policy, advancing oral health literacy and developing innovative pediatric care models. She is also widely recognized for mentoring future leaders in pediatric dentistry.
“Dr. Lee’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for AAPD,” said AAPD President Dr. Tom Ison. “Her experience, vision and dedication to children’s oral health will guide the Academy through a rapidly changing health care environment.”
Outgoing AAPD CEO Dr. John Rutkauskas added that Dr. Lee’s collaborative leadership style and commitment to innovation position her to lead the organization successfully into the future.
As CEO, Dr. Lee will oversee AAPD’s strategic priorities in advocacy, education and research, while strengthening partnerships across the dental and health care communities. The Academy’s mission is to ensure that all children have access to safe, high-quality oral health care.
“It is an honor to serve as the next CEO of AAPD,” Dr. Lee said. “I look forward to building on the Academy’s strong foundation to expand access, support innovation and empower pediatric dentists to provide exceptional care for children.”