Hometown: New Brunswick, New Jersey

Chapter: Case Western Reserve University

Graduation Year: 2027

Position Held At Chapter: President


Patrick-Mansour

How has ASDA helped you build your leadership skills?
ASDA has been one of the most influential parts of my journey in dental school. From attending national conferences and professional development lectures to serving as Chapter President, I’ve grown tremendously in how I lead, communicate, and work with others. Leading our chapter has taught me how to effectively manage a team, navigate conflict, delegate responsibilities, and make decisions that reflect the best interest of our members. I’ve learned the importance of listening to different perspectives and adapting to challenges with resilience. ASDA creates an environment where student leaders are empowered to take initiative, think creatively, and develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom or clinic.

What do you think is the most vital quality in a leader?
I believe the most vital quality in a leader is the ability to uplift those around them. True leadership is not about doing everything yourself. It is about helping your team realize their own strengths, giving them the space to grow, and building a culture of trust and support. As President, I’ve seen firsthand how empowering an executive board and members to take ownership leads to a more successful and motivated organization. A great leader inspires confidence and encourages collaboration. They don’t just guide the team, they grow alongside them and help everyone succeed together.

Why should members get involved with ASDA leadership positions?
Joining ASDA leadership is one of the best decisions a dental student can make. It provides the opportunity to build essential skills like communication, time management, and planning, which are critical both in school and in practice. ASDA also gives you a deeper understanding of organized dentistry and the challenges our profession faces, such as licensure reform, student debt, and access to care. Leadership allows you to be part of those conversations and gives you the chance to make a difference. You get to connect with passionate students and mentors across the country, take initiative, and help shape the future of our profession while growing personally and professionally. 

I highly encourage every dental student to get involved in leadership. “In the pursuit of excellence, there is no finish line” is a quote I live by, and one of the best ways to embody that mindset is by stepping into leadership and continuing to grow both in and beyond dental school.

What future leadership roles in organized dentistry interest you and why?
After graduation, I hope to stay actively involved in organized dentistry, particularly at the state or regional level. ASDA has shown me the value of having a voice in the profession and the importance of staying engaged beyond dental school. I am especially interested in roles that allow me to advocate for dentists, shape policy, and support new graduates as they transition into practice.

In addition to focusing on clinical care, I am passionate about helping dental students and young professionals understand the business and ethical responsibilities that come with running a successful practice. Too often, we find ourselves emphasizing clinical excellence without giving equal weight to the leadership, communication, and business skills needed to manage a practice with integrity. I want to inspire future dentists to think beyond the operatory, to lead with purpose, and to build practices that are not only productive but also grounded in ethical, patient-centered care.

Remaining involved in organized dentistry allows me to contribute to the profession on a broader scale. It helps me stay connected, informed, and engaged in advancing initiatives that support the long-term success of both individual dentists and the field as a whole. It is an opportunity to give back, to mentor, and to help shape the next generation of dental leaders.