Emerging Leader Award

The Emerging Leader Award was established to recognize a member of the AAMP whose contributions to the field of Maxillofacial Prosthodontics and the Academy are outstanding.

• The candidate shall have been an active member in the Academy for a minimum of seven years.
• The candidate has advanced and contributed to the field of Maxillofacial Prosthodontics through research, education, patient care, Maxillofacial Prosthodontics advocacy, and/or community outreach.
• Regular attendance at AAMP meetings.
• Participates in AAMP committees.
• 2025 is the first time this award has been given.

This is the first time this award has been given. This year’s awardee was presented by Dr. Alvin Wee, immediate past president, chair of the nominating committee. It was granted to an exemplary member of our Academy, Dr. James “Jim” Kelly.

Some of his notable accomplishments include:
- He directed two MFP fellowship programs and initiated a standalone MFP program at Mayo.
- In the academy, he has been actively involved in various committees for nearly 15 years, including student membership, fellowship, and other committees within the (AAMP).
- He accepted the call to serve as the Executive Secretary and Treasurer of the AAMP for two consecutive 3-year terms.
- At Creighton, he holds the position of Chair of Prosthodontics, aiming to mentor and inspire the MFP profession and serve as the Maschka Endowed Chair of Dental Ethics.
- He has also established a non-profit organization dedicated to providing oral health care and education both domestically and internationally.

From left to right: Dr. Alvin Wee, immediate past president, chair of the nominating committee presenting the award to Dr. James Kelly.