Dr. Katie Hakes
Dr. Katie Hakes and her husband, Harold, enjoying a hike together in Whistler, Canada.
Learn more about Dr. HakesAnnual Member Meeting (AMM) Resource Hub
Information to support your participation in the Annual Member Meeting
About the 2026 Candidates
Get to know the individuals up for reelection this year.
Dr. Dennis Bradshaw
Dr. Dennis Bradshaw with his dogs, Mr. Clyde — an off-white shepherd rescue — and Griffin, the family’s Brittany Spaniel.
Learn more about Dr. BradshawUnderstanding the Member Director Role
An overview of responsibilities and impact
Role Description
A Member Director is a participating dentist elected by their peers during the Annual Member Meeting (AMM) to serve on Washington Dental Service’s (WDS) and Delta Dental of Washington’s (DDWA) Boards of Directors.
This role brings the voice of practicing dentists to board-level discussions and strategic decision-making. The Member Director role reflects one part of the important commitment to Member Dentist representation and ensuring meaningful provider input.
Member Directors bring real-world clinical and practice experience into conversations that shape programs and priorities affecting both providers and their patients.
Board contribution
As a voting member of the WDS/DDWA Boards, a Member Director contributes to oversight and strategy related to:
- Provider engagement and participation
- Patient access to care
- Practice support programs
- The long-term direction of DDWA as a dental benefits company
Explore the timeline to understand how the Member Director role has evolved alongside DDWA’s provider-centric approach.
View TimelineMember Director Election FAQs
Find answers to common questions about voting, eligibility, and the election process
Who can vote in a Member Director election?
Each WDS Member Dentist in good standing is entitled to one vote in the election or re-election of a Member Director during the Annual Member Meeting (AMM).
When is the election held?
The election takes place at the AMM, typically held on the second Friday in November. In 2026, the meeting will be held on Friday, November 13.
What is the process for electing Member Directors?
Member Director candidates are brought forward through a process that involves both dentists and members of the WDS Board.
Can I vote if I cannot attend the meeting?
Yes. Member Dentists may participate virtually or by proxy. Proxy forms are provided with the meeting notice and allow you to designate another eligible individual to deliver your vote.
What does a Member Director do once elected?
Once elected, a Member Director serves on the WDS/DDWA Boards of Directors for a term of three years. They participate in governance and strategic oversight while ensuring provider perspectives are considered in decisions that affect participating dentists and patient care.
Are any current Member Directors up for election in 2026?
Yes. Dr. Dennis Bradshaw is up for re-election to his second term, and Dr. Katie Hakes is up for re-election to her third term.
Still have questions?
