CHICAGO, July 20, 2026 – The American Student Dental Association (ASDA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kate Dockins, MS, CAE, as Executive Director, effective August 18, 2026. Dockins brings over 20 years of experience with global associations, professional societies and foundations. Her experience in higher education provides a strong understanding of developing student leaders and the importance of creating meaningful leadership opportunities.

Dockins has a strong record of partnering with boards, volunteers, staff and external stakeholders to strengthen organizational effectiveness, drive strategic initiatives and create meaningful impact for members and the professions they serve. She has held senior leadership positions with the Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals (ANFP), the Nutrition & Foodservice Education Foundation, the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) and, most recently, the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics where she served as Interim Chief of Staff.

“When the opportunity to join ASDA came along, it felt like a chance to bring together the two parts of my career that have meant the most to me: developing student leaders and strengthening mission-driven associations. I've always believed that students deserve meaningful opportunities to lead—not someday, but today. Some of the most innovative ideas and courageous leadership I've witnessed have come from people who were just beginning their professional journeys,” shared Dockins. “I am thrilled to be joining such a highly respected association as ASDA where the next-generation of dentists have been shaping the future of dentistry for the last 55 years.” 

Dockins succeeds Nancy Honeycutt, CAE, who is retiring after 23 years in the role. During her decorated tenure as ASDA Executive Director, Honeycutt has been recognized for her contributions to the oral health profession and dedicated mentorship of dental students.

“While it is bittersweet to move on from ASDA, I am excited for my next chapter as well as ASDA’s,” said Honeycutt. “Kate Dockins is a highly respected leader who is passionate about working with students, strengthening organizational culture, and helping organizations achieve lasting impact.”

“As the new ASDA Executive Director, Kate Dockins will bring energy and passion, along with knowledge of the association environment and best practices,” said ASDA President Honesty Boone. “Throughout her career, she has consistently focused on supporting student leaders, strengthening professional identity and building pathways from education to career. This not only aligns with ASDA’s mission, but will also be instrumental toward ensuring the future of ASDA and the dental profession.”

For more information on ASDA, go to www.asdanet.org.

About ASDA
The American Student Dental Association is a national student-run organization that protects and advances the rights, interests and welfare of dental students. Representing more than 23,000 members, ASDA introduces students to lifelong involvement in organized dentistry and provides services, information, education, representation and advocacy. For more information, visit ASDAnet.org. Connect with ASDA on Instagram by following @DentalStudents.

MEDIA CONTACT
Kristin Spencer
Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications
American Student Dental Association (ASDA)
kristin0325@asdanet.org