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Dr. Glenn Hemberger, in his own Words

Early Life

I was the third born of seven children of Herman and Marjorie and raised on a farm in south central Kansas. On the farm, you don't hire the labor force you need, you just produce it. I loved the twelve to eighteen hours of work the farm often required and did so for eighteen years. I went to a parochial elementary school under the watchful eyes of the Sacred Heart Sisters. Corporal punishment was allowed in those days (and even encouraged by my dad), so I grew up with righteous principles. I went to a public high school and started on the varsity basketball team my junior and senior year. My dad sent me to a private college as he did all seven of his kids (which as very unusual at that time for a farmer to do).

After I graduated from St. Benedict's college, I spent three and a half years at UMKC Dental School, graduating as an early grad. I entered the Pedodontic graduate program as a student between two classes (what was I to do when you graduate in January). After teaching in the Pedo grad program for two years, I was employed by KU Med, starting a pediatric dental clinic. After two years at KU, I entered into private practice as an associate in Prairie Village. I started as a self-proprietor in 1992 at my present location in Overland Park, KS.

"I can't seem to say no"

It seems that either I have a strange sense of adventure for the unknown or, maybe, I never really learn the word "no" when offered an opportunity to get involved. In the Fifth District, I became a Delegate to the KDA, Chair of the Public Health Committee, Chair of the Peer Review Committee, and Secretary-President of the Fifth District. When asked if I would consider running for KDA Secretary, I said to myself, "of course not", which translated to me actually saying, "Sure I will." First thing I knew, I ran for KDA Vice-President leading to the progression of President. Finally, when asked if I would consider running for the Kansas Dental Board I thought, "who do you think you're kidding, besides, the Governor would never appoint me". This, of course, translated into "yes, I'll give it a try�besides the Governor would never appoint me." Meet the 3rd District of Kansas Dental Board member.

Many relationships with wonderful people

I must say, I have enjoyed all my positions in organized dentistry. Not only for the contributions I personally could make, but for the relationships I built with the many dedicated people. This starts with the Fifth District and the many colleagues with which I have associated. At the state level, I am constantly impressed with the KDA's central office, starting with our Executive Director, Kevin (who is second to none in the ADA) and his entire staff. I do not think I could have made it through my reign without them. I have also gotten to know many wonderful professionals in the ADA 12th District while serving as an ADA Delegate.

Lastly, I would be amiss if I didn't mention the dedicated people I met in our Kansas Mission of Mercy. It starts with its two co-founders, Jeff and Jon; my co-chair of the KC KMOM, Lisa, and the literal thousands of volunteers who make it such a success.

My Wife Susan

My personal life was considerably enhanced when I married Susan about four years ago. She is what now inspires me to see the real purpose I have on this earth. It is a time we should not waste. I have enjoyed watching my step-son Brett play tennis at Marquette and evolve into the young man he is today. For entertainment, I enjoy even my poor game of golf. I also enjoy hunting, fishing, wilderness adventures, and biking.

In conclusion, most of you know that my passion these last years has been the area of oral health for the elderly. This continues to be a priority and I will continue to encourage all my colleagues to get involved in this most needed and often neglected area of our profession.