Dr. Theresa Cheng, a retired periodontist, was awarded the 2021 ADA Humanitarian Award on October 13 at the ADA's SmileCon 2021 meeting in Las Vegas.
The Washington resident is the founder of Everyone for Veterans (EV4), an organization that aims to improve the quality of life of low-income combat veterans by connecting them with goods and services, including dental care, in their communities. Prior to her retirement, Cheng offered free dental care to family members caring for veterans returning from combat.
Annually, the award is given to an ADA member who improves the quality of life and oral health of individuals in the U.S. and internationally for a period of at least 10 years.