From Chairside to CEO—and Back Again: Leadership, Work-Life Balance, and Career Reinvention in Dentistry

Speaker: Danielle Ruskin, DDS

Course Description:
Drawing from nearly three decades of clinical experience, Dr. Danielle Ruskin shares her journey through every stage of a dental career—from associate and practice ownership to executive clinical leadership. Designed for dental professionals, this course explores career transitions and highlights how volunteer leadership, mentorship, and organized dentistry can empower women dentists to strengthen leadership skills, expand networks, and align personal values with professional goals.

Be sure to stay on the meeting for follow-up conversation and connection with your fellow women in dentistry colleagues!

Learning Objectives:
Through participation in this course, attendees will:

• Identify work-life balance challenges and opportunities across transitions from associate dentist to private practice owner and back to an associate role.
• Apply leadership development strategies—including self-awareness, communication, delegation, boundary-setting, and mentorship—to support sustainable career growth.
• Become aware of leadership pathways in private practice, DPOs, organized dentistry, and broader professional communities.
• Develop one actionable strategy for their current career stage.

CE Credit:
This course offers 1.5 credits under AGD Code 770 (Self-Improvement)

About the Speaker:
Dr. Danielle Ruskin is a highly accomplished General Dentist with a deep-rooted connection to Southeast Michigan. Graduating from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry in 1999, Dr. Ruskin has dedicated her entire professional career to serving the community she calls home. Her commitment to excellence led her to complete a General Practice Residency at DMC Sinai-Grace Hospital in 2000, further honing her skills and expanding her knowledge in dentistry. During her time in dental school, she met her husband, Dr. Aaron Ruskin, forming a strong partnership both personally and professionally. ​As the wife of Dr. Aaron Ruskin, a proud mother of three children including twin girls Sasha and Sydney, and son Harrison, Dr. Ruskin understands the importance of family and incorporates this value into her dental practice.  

With longstanding membership and serving in multiple leadership roles in prestigious organizations such as the American Dental Association (ADA), Michigan Dental Association (MDA), Livingston County Dental Society, American College of Dentists, and Pierre Fauchard Academy, Dr. Ruskin stays at the forefront of advancements in dentistry. Her dedication to continuous learning reflects her passion for delivering the highest standard of care to her patients.