You are the Future of the Orthodontic Specialty
The AAO Foundation is here to support you-the next generation of orthodontic practitioners, educators, and researchers. As the philanthropic arm of the orthodontic specialty, we fund vital education, groundbreaking research, life-changing community programs and the preservation of our profession's legacy.
Thanks to generous contributions from AAO members and residents like you, we are able to invest in programs that elevate the specialty and positively impact our communities no matter which career path you choose.
- For Junior Faculty - Academic grants and fellowships funded by the Foundation help secure the future of orthodontic education.
- For Researchers - The Foundation's Awards Program powers innovative studies and scientific advancements.
- For Practitioners - Foundation funding drives clinical innovation, efficiency and improved patient care.
How the AAO Foundation Supports Residents
Offsetting Costs to Attend AAO Annual Session
Dr. Fred A. Garrett Resident Education Program
Attending the AAO Annual Session is a must for every future orthodontist. Build your network, explore cutting-edge tools and technology, and connect with top minds in the field.
To support in-person attendance, the Foundation offers a $300 travel stipend for eligible residents the first time they attend the AAO Annual Session and a $100 travel stipend the second time.
To qualify, residents must:
- Register and attend the AAO Annual Session in person
- Be a member of AAO
- Graduation date after October 1, 2025
- Orthodontic Residency Program must be located the U.S. or Canada
- Visit the AAO Foundation Booth during Exhibit Hall hours and complete the Resident Survey
- Have not received this incentive before
*Please note, we do NOT require an application prior to AAO Annual Session. Checks will be mailed directly to residents in the summer, AFTER the Annual Session concludes.
Teaching Business Fundamentals
Classes for Orthodontic Resident Empowerment (CORE)
For residents preparing to open or join a practice, the Foundation sponsors a six-module virtual course on business skills. Led by Dr. Bill Layman, you will learn about accounting, strategy, financials, insurance and more.
Sponsoring Specialty Education & Resident Networking
GORP Graduate Orthodontic Residents Program®
Each year, the AAO Foundation is proud to sponsor GORP, giving residents access to premier specialty education and networking—completely free.
Nurturing Leadership Skills
AAO Foundation Resident Director Opportunity
Become the next generation of orthodontic leaders by applying for the AAO Foundation Resident Director position. As a Resident Director, you will be a voting member of the Board of Directors for the 2026-27 term and have the opportunity to:
- Attend the AAO Annual Session and engaging with residents at the Foundation booth
- Represent the Foundation at GORP
- Participate in two in-person board meetings in St. Louis (February 2026 for orientation, and February 2027 as a voting member)
To qualify for this position, your graduation date must be after May 2027 to apply.
Funding to Support Your Research
Research Aid Awards
For residents pursuing part-time or full-time academic careers, the Foundation offers up to $6,000 in Research Aid Award funding. Applications must include a letter of support.
Want help submitting a strong application? Join our virtual workshop hosted by the Planning and Awards Review Committee.
Friday, June 6, 2025, from 11 am-1 pm.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of Orthodontics!
Together, we can ensure that orthodontic care remains at the forefront of innovation and accessibility for generations to come.
Volunteer Your Time
The Foundation's Gifted Smiles program connects orthodontists with underserved patients who need care. Many children are still waiting to be matched with a volunteer in their area. You can make a life-changing impact—one smile at a time.
Make a Pledge
By pledging as little as $5.00 per month during residency, you can help ensure the future of the orthodontic specialty. Your pledge to the AAO Foundation as a resident inducts you into the Vanguard Society. This lifetime distinction can only be unlocked as a resident who shows their personal commitment to the specialty.