The American Association of Orthodontists Foundation (AAOF) believed that understanding the needs and opinions of AAO members was critical to the success of developing a new strategic plan.

Since the 1980’s, AAOF successfully raised money to support orthodontic education and research, but after 35 years and significant changes in the field, the Board realized it was time to reassess its approach. An increase in the number of residency programs, new competition from general dentists, and a rise in student debt all pointed to a need for new strategies and approaches to raising money. So AAOF turned to its many stakeholders for input on its mission, Board and staff structure, and fund development and grant making strategies.

Our team developed a planning process for AAOF that included interviews with orthodontists and others in the industry, listening sessions with award recipients and major donors, and a survey of AAO members. With this data, information on AAOF’s operations and past performance, and a two-day strategy session with organizational leaders and professionals in the field, our consultants brought forward a refreshed mission and vision statement, strategic goals and an action plan to achieve them.

The Rome Group’s process helped AAOF gather the perspectives and ideas of its stakeholders to decide on a strategic direction that prioritizes excellent patient care by qualified orthodontic specialists in a changing field.