Oral Health Champion Award
The Rhode Island Oral Health Coalition's, Oral Health Champion Award is given to an individual who exemplifies the mission and vision of the Rhode Island Oral Health Coalition by improving the oral health of all Rhode Islanders. This award will be presented at the Annual meeting.
Awardee selection guidelines:
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Nominations will be solicited from Coalition members in "good standing"
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Any previous awardee may be re-nominated, in non-consecutive years.
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Nominees must have demonstrated commitment to oral health and displayed positive influence affecting the oral health of Rhode Island residents.
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Executive Board will make the final selection from the balloting of names submitted, with the nominee who receives the majority votes as the awardee
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The Final selection will be conducted one month prior to the Annual meeting in which the award will be given.
2025 Oral Health Champion:
Dr. Maryam
Rayani and Kathleen Keable
🎉 Celebrating Our Oral Health Champions! 🦷
The Rhode Island Oral Health Coalition is proud to honor Dr. Maryam Rayani and Kathleen Keable as recipients of the Oral Health Champion Award—recognizing their outstanding leadership, dedication, and impact on oral health access across Rhode Island.
Dr. Maryam Rayani brings more than 20 years of excellence in clinical dentistry, education, and advocacy. As Dental Director at WellOne and an Adjunct Faculty Member at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care and the advancement of the dental workforce. Her leadership in statewide initiatives and her dedication to expanding access to care have made a lasting impact on communities throughout Rhode Island.
Kathleen Keable’s nearly three-decade career reflects a deep commitment to operational excellence and workforce development. As Operational Manager at WellOne, she has played a pivotal role in strengthening dental practice systems and expanding opportunities within the field. Her leadership in developing the Dental Assistant in Training Program and her long-standing service with the Dental Safety Net Committee highlight her passion for building a strong, sustainable oral health infrastructure.
Together, Dr. Rayani and Kathleen exemplify what it means to be champions of oral health—working tirelessly to improve access, support the workforce, and ensure healthier communities for all.
👏 Please join us in congratulating these exceptional leaders!
Coming Soon! - Submit a Nomination
Previous Winners
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Sadie DeCourcy (2023)
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Libby Swan (2022)
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Marty Dellapenna (2021)
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Katy Linwood (2018)
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Marie Jones Bridges (2017)
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Jim Beasley (2016)
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Dr. Jeffrey Dodge (2015)
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Elizabeth H. Roberts (2014)