The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) has announced the promotion of Catherine K. Draper, RDH, MS, FADHA, to editor in chief of the Journal of Dental Hygiene (JDH), effective immediately. Draper has served as the journal’s managing editor since 2016.
“Cathy’s innovative leadership and dedication to scientific excellence have been invaluable to the Journal of Dental Hygiene,” said Jennifer Hill, chief executive officer of ADHA. “Her contributions to expanding the journal’s scope and mentoring emerging researchers strengthen the foundation of dental hygiene scholarship. This promotion recognizes both her exceptional work over the past decade and our confidence in her continued leadership.”
Draper’s tenure has included a range of updates to the journal’s editorial and publication practices. According to ADHA, her work has included streamlining the Editorial Board review process, introducing new content formats such as “Short Reports,” and leading a full redesign of the journal to align with the association’s 2023 rebranding. She also oversaw the addition of video content to research articles.
The appointment comes as the journal approaches its 100th anniversary in 2026.
Draper is a member of the adjunct faculty in the Health Sciences and Horticulture Division at Foothill College in Los Altos Hills, California, and has more than 45 years of experience in clinical dental hygiene practice. She earned her associate degree from Foothill College in 1975 and a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene from the University of Michigan in 1978.
During her time as managing editor, Draper received several honors from ADHA. These include the ADHA Award for Excellence in Dental Hygiene (2020), designation as an ADHA Professional Fellow in the inaugural FADHA class (2023), and the ADHA Presidential Citation (2024) for her role in a special joint issue with the International Journal of Dental Hygiene celebrating ADHA’s centennial.
Draper has presented continuing education programs both nationally and internationally, with topics including oropharyngeal cancer, dental implants, and infection control. She has contributed to multiple dental hygiene publications and textbooks.
The Journal of Dental Hygiene is the only peer-reviewed scientific journal in the United States dedicated exclusively to dental hygiene. It is published six times per year and is a benefit of ADHA membership. Subscriptions are also available. In recognition of National Dental Hygiene Month, the October issue is currently open access at adha.org/JDH.
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