The Organization

The American Student Dental Association (ASDA) was founded in 1971 and is the largest dental student organization in the United States. With a membership of more than 23,000, ASDA represents 86% of dental students from all 66 dental schools.  ASDA’s mission is to protect and advance the rights, interests and welfare of dental students.  The association introduces students to lifelong involvement in organized dentistry and provides services, information, education, representation and advocacy.  ASDA representatives vote in the ADA House of Delegates, sit on most ADA councils and commissions and comprise one of the most respected student organizations in the nation. 

ASDA is located off Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago, with a staff of 14 and an operating budget of $4.5 million.

Position Overview

The Associate Editor will write, edit and proofread copy for ASDA’s print and electronic publications following established style guidelines. Participate in editorial board meetings, prepare agendas and minutes. Help manage the article submissions process and ensure deadlines are met. Perform administrative tasks such as mailing correspondence to authors. Some travel and weekend/overtime required.

Position Responsibilities

• Provides editorial support for publications (Contour magazine, ASDA Blog, e-newsletters and annual student handbooks)
  • Develops content ideas and maintains editorial calendar for magazine
  • Provides developmental/structural edits for articles
  • Interviews members and subject-matter experts as needed
  • Writes feature articles, blog posts and e-newsletter content
• Inputs blog post copy and images into WordPress
• Proofreads magazine and student handbooks prior to print
• Manages production of all monthly e-newsletters (Word of Mouth, New Leader, Polished Predental and Advocacy Brief)
  • Creates production schedules and ensures timely distribution
  • Collects content from contributors and assembles into master file
  • Proofs and tests HTML email; provides final approval before distributed
• Brainstorms ideas to leverage publications content via multiple platforms (social media, etc.)
• Writes and/or copy edits promotional emails, website copy, marketing collateral and other projects as assigned, adhering to ASDA house style guide
• Supports work of the editorial board by assisting with author database, crafting meeting minutes and other duties
• Manage ASDA’s stock photography licenses and inventory
• Manage the publication section of the ASDA website
• Coordinate magazine archive and distribution to authors
• Fulfill other duties as assigned