The Georgia General Assembly recently honored the Georgia School of Orthodontics (GSO) for its decade of service in expanding access to orthodontic care and advancing orthodontic education in the state. Both the Georgia State Senate and House of Representatives adopted resolutions recognizing the Atlanta-based institution for its achievements.
The recognition was celebrated with the participation of Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and Speaker of the House Jon Burns, alongside an official proclamation from Governor Brian P. Kemp marking GSO’s 10th anniversary.
Founded in 2016 by Chris and Dr. Gasper Lazzara, GSO’s 36-month orthodontic residency program was established with a dual mission: to offer advanced orthodontic education and provide affordable, high-quality care to Georgia families. Over the past decade, the school has treated more than 14,600 patients, saving families an estimated $46.6 million in orthodontic costs.
“We are deeply honored to be recognized by both chambers of the Georgia General Assembly,” said Chris Lazzara, Co-Founder and President-elect of GSO. “This recognition belongs to our faculty, residents, staff, and the thousands of families we have had the privilege to serve.
Our mission has always been about education, service, and expanding access to care. We remain committed to addressing healthcare disparities and strengthening Georgia’s role in orthodontic education and innovation.”
In addition to its clinical work, GSO has been a leader in initiatives such as Purple Heart Smiles and Gift of a Smile, providing over $290,000 in complimentary braces and Invisalign? treatment to underserved communities, veterans, and others in need.
GSO has also invested more than $4.6 million in scholarships and pledged $8.5 million over 12 years in partnership with the John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation to expand access to orthodontic education.
Looking ahead, GSO leaders are focused on further growing its access-driven model and strengthening Georgia’s healthcare workforce in the coming decade.