Award of Merit This award recognizes an individual who has served in an outstanding capacity in the governing or service of CDA over a sustained period of time, or who has made similar outstanding contributions to the dental profession, the dental community or the oral health of Canadians and society at large. Dr. Chantal Czerednikow emerged as a national leader in advancing dental care for people with disabilities, particularly neurodivergent individuals. After earning her dental degree from McGill University and completing her residency at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, Dr. Czerednikow pursued specialized training to help fill the gap in Canadian education on treating patients with special needs. In 2017, she founded the McGill Oral Health Clinic for the Neurodivergent Community, Montreal’s first clinic dedicated to adults with autism spectrum disorder. Beyond the clinic, Dr. Czerednikow has advocated for improved access to care. She has secured government and philanthropic support to expand services, including general anesthetic options, and has worked with Quebec’s Cree communities to establish specialized care in northern regions of the province. For over 30 years, Dr. Thomas Colina has dedicated his career to advancing oral health in underserved communities, both at home and abroad. A passionate advocate for access to care, he has led and supported numerous humanitarian dental missions, including trips to the Philippines with the Kindness in Action (KIA) organization, and has provided continuing education to members of the Zimbabwe Dental Association. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Colina turned his focus to local needs, launching the NorWest Project in Manitoba—a grassroots initiative offering free dental care to marginalized populations. In its most recent effort, the project screened 150 patients in one day, who are now receiving care across six participating clinics. Whether mentoring colleagues, providing direct care, or building sustainable outreach programs, Dr. Colina continues to exemplify service-driven leadership and compassion in dentistry. Dr. Chantal Czerednikow Dr. Thomas Colina The recognition of my passion, perseverance and dedication to improving the oral health of the neurodivergent community means so much to me. I wouldn’t be here without the guidance and inspiration of so many incredible mentors. I’m especially thankful to Drs. Clive Friedman, Heather Jackson, Denise Fox, Allison Dule, and countless others who have shaped my work. The clinic would not be what it is today without the unwavering support of so many individuals who believed in me and its vision. I also want to express my gratitude to the dental team at the clinic, Michelle and Dorothy, for their dedication and compassion towards our patients. About 10 years ago, I was approached with the opportunity to be part of an innovative project. There was no clear roadmap. I was told I would be a pioneer, and at the time, I didn’t fully grasp what that meant. Saying yes to this opportunity turned out to be one of the best decisions of my career. It gave me the chance to grow as a teacher, an advocate and a dentist. Thank you to the executive committee of the board of the Manitoba Dental Association. I feel truly honoured by your nomination. In the Philippines, the national hero Rizal said, ‘it is a useless life that is not consecrated to a great ideal’. I have always felt that it is a privilege to belong to the profession of dentistry where we are afforded opportunities to improve the quality of life of our fellow human beings. I have been fortunate to have been asked to answer the call to serve. My involvement in organized dentistry in Manitoba, with its culture of community, is a gratifying experience having worked with so many amazing individuals who shared goals is to advance dentistry in our province. To my family, to my wife, Sharon, and my children, Alana and Nicholas, thank you for your constant support in all my past, present, and future endeavours. CDA Award Winners 14 | 2025 | Issue 4
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