The Contra Costa Dental Society congratulates Dr. Nestor Karas and Dr. Don Schmitt on their induction as Fellows of the American College of Dentists (ACD) during its 2026 annual meeting in Santa Barbara.

Held October 23–24 under the theme “Catch the Wave!”, the meeting brought colleagues together for education, leadership discussions, and fellowship. Saturday’s Convocation welcomed the College’s 105th cohort of Fellows, including Drs. Karas and Schmitt.

The program emphasized ethics, leadership, and service to the profession. Sessions explored dentists’ ethical responsibilities to colleagues and dental teams, alongside opportunities to help shape standards for leadership in oral healthcare. A forum devoted to innovation and service invited Fellows to share ideas and lessons from their leadership experiences.

Dr. Schmitt was nominated for Fellowship by Dr. Ned Nix, who also served as the College’s vice president and hosted the Convocation Luncheon. The weekend’s celebrations included a reception honoring the new Fellows and an “Evening Under the Stars” dinner.

We are proud to celebrate Nestor and Don on this distinguished professional milestone. Please join us in congratulating both colleagues on their induction into the American College of Dentists!