Jaclyn Montag, a Doctor of Dental Surgery student at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry, has been selected to serve on the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) Council on Advocacy.
Montag, who is entering her final year of dental school, was selected as one of only five students to serve on the council by the ASDA Board of Trustees. She will serve in the position until the organization’s annual session in spring 2026 and represent Districts 6 and 7, which include all ASDA chapters in Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee and West Virginia.
“I wanted to be involved in advocacy for ASDA on a national level to help make policy more understandable and fun, so that more students feel empowered to get involved and realize the impact they can have on the future of dentistry,” she said. “By breaking down complex issues and creating engaging opportunities, I hope to inspire my peers to see advocacy as both accessible and essential.”
One of five national councils, the Council on Advocacy represents the interests of dental students across the country on legislative and regulatory issues that impact the dental profession. The group engages in grassroots activities, such as state lobby days and email campaigns, to promote action-oriented advocacy in support of dental students and the patients they serve.
In her role, Montag will focus on three areas of responsibility – legislative strategy, advocacy engagement strategy and regional management. She will establish and provide oversight on strategic initiatives and chapter goals, provide leadership, support and resources at the chapter, district and national levels, and work with district legislative liaisons and trustees.
She participated in her first meeting as legislative coordinator during the ASDA Spring Council Meeting held April 26-27 in Chicago, Illinois.
About the American Student Dental Association
The American Student Dental Association is a national student-run organization that protects and advances the rights, interests and welfare of dental students. Membership benefits include access to valuable resources across a variety of needs, including career support, licensure, health and wellness, scholarships and finances, and more.
At WVU, all Doctor of Dental Surgery students are members of the school’s ASDA chapter.
Photo at Top: WVU student Jaclyn Montag (third from right) was recently selected by the American Student Dental Association Board of Trustees to serve on the organization’s national Council on Advocacy.
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