In 2016 the most prestigious award for dental industry companies, will transition sponsorship from the Pride Institute to the newly launched Cellerant Consulting Group, founded by Dr. Lou Shuman, DMD, CAGS. The Cellerant “Best of Class” Technology Award, formerly known as The Pride “Best of Class” Technology Award, recognizes innovative game changing technology offerings, services and devices. Since the inaugural presentation in 2009, the “Best of Class” Technology Awards have grown to occupy a unique space in dentistry, by creating awareness in the community of manufacturers that are driving the discussion as to how practices will operate now and in the future.
Prior to founding Cellerant Consulting Group, Dr. Shuman served as the President of Pride Institute where he created and developed the “Best of Class” Technology Awards. “As one of the most recognized and reputable names in practice management, the Pride Institute was a terrific launching pad for a completely different kind of award” said Dr. Shuman.
In just eight years the “Best of Class” designation has become not only a coveted honor for industry, but as importantly a trusted criterion for dental professionals to make educated, informed product and technology investment decisions for their practices and their patients. “While sponsorship will transition to Cellerant and the award name will change in 2016, the “Best of Class” commitment to integrity, based on its rigorous selection process will remain the same” vowed Dr. Shuman.
The selection process relies on an expert panel of dentists recognized as thought leaders and educators that includes Dr. Paul Feuerstein, Dr. John Flucke, Dr. Marty Jablow and Dr. Parag Kachalia. Over the course of each year, the panel members seek out and conduct research on potentially practice-changing technologies, with deliberations on nominees and final voting taking place in February. Panelists are precluded from voting in any category where they have consulting relationships. The entire selection process is conducted and managed on a not-for-profit basis.
“Best of Class” Technology Award winners are showcased at the ADA annual meeting. Dental professionals have the unique opportunity to speak with each company and interact with the award-winning products at the Technology Expo in the Exhibit Hall. The Technology Expo also offers free continuing education taught by the leading experts in technology integration and social media. More information can be found online at ADA.org/meeting.
“Lou started Cellerant in response to the industry consulting business that grew organically during his time as President of Pride. We agreed that Pride should remain laser focused on the practice management side” commented Amy Morgan, Pride Institute CEO. “It’s logical and fitting that “Best of Class”, now the most prominent dental industry award, transition to Cellerant and continue forward under Dr. Shuman’s leadership”. “I am excited about this transition year and the 2016 “Best of Class” award winners which will be announced in June” added Dr. Shuman.
