Thursday, November 13, 2025

 


Overview

The Wisconsin Dental Association Symposium, held annually just before the House of Delegates, is coming to Appleton on Thursday, November 13, 2025. Author, speaker and executive coach Gary Zelesky will present his morning keynote “The Passion-Centered Practice- Workplace Resiliency,” followed by afternoon breakout sessions on topics related to dentists, hygienists and other members of the dental team. Event registration includes breakfast, the morning keynote, lunch, your choice of two 90-minute breakout sessions and opportunities to interact with sponsors!

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Keynote Speaker Biography

 

Gary Zelesky

Gary Zelesky

One Word That Encapsulates Gary: PASSION

Gary's energy is electric, his humor contagious, and his presence unforgettable—but it’s his PASSION for life, people, and his message that truly makes him a powerhouse speaker. Whether he's on stage or connecting one-on-one, Gary's ability to ignite enthusiasm and inspire action is what sets him apart and makes him one of the most in-demand speakers today.

Gary’s speaking career has taken him to the biggest stages in the dental community, where he's been the keynote speaker at prestigious national events like the  Hinman, Seattle Study Club, AACD, AADOM, AADGP, and numerous state organizations, such as Wisconsin State Association, Texas State Association, California Dental Association, Yankee, study clubs, and private practices. From dental professionals to corporate leaders, Gary’s message—PASSION FOR LIFE will take you where you want to go—resonates with audiences from all walks of life.

In 1986, Gary founded Youth Invasion, a transformative program that mobilized thousands of young people to serve underprivileged communities around the world. He also played a pivotal role in developing the youth major at North Central College, where enrollment skyrocketed under his leadership. By 1990, Gary’s speaking schedule was so in-demand that he made the leap to full-time speaking, traveling the globe to share his powerful message with organizations ranging from Boeing and Hilton Hotels to MasterCard International.

Gary is also the author of The Passion-Centered Life, a book that challenges individuals to go beyond simply having a career to living a life full of purpose and passion. His recent graduation from William Jessup University with a Master’s in Executive Coaching is a testament to his belief that we are all lifelong students—constantly learning, growing, and evolving, no matter where we are in life.

Gary's personal life is just as inspiring as his professional one. He lives in Central California with his best friend and co-adventurer, Cherisse, whom he’s been married to for 34 incredible years. Together, they are the proud parents of three amazing children and the joyful grandparents of five grandchildren. For Gary, life truly doesn’t get any better than this—and he’s passionate about helping others realize that they can live their best lives too.

With passion, purpose, and a little humor, anything is possible.

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Location & Hotel

Hilton Appleton Paper Valley
333 W. College Ave
Appleton, WI 54911

When making reservations, mention the Wisconsin Dental Association (WDA25) to obtain the room block rate of $159 per night for standard room (plus taxes). Reserve via phone at 800-774-1500. You can also book directly online. Check in: 3 p.m. / Check out: 11 a.m. Deadline for WDA room rate is Sunday, Oct. 15, 2025. 

Airport shuttle to Appleton International Airport (ATW) (15 minutes away).

Self-parking available with City of Appleton.

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Sponsors

 


Platinum

Gold Partner

 

Panacea Financial Logo - Primary

Gold

Old National Bank logo

Silver

BMO logo

Children's Surgency Center

D&S Labs


Garfield refining

Contact


Contact Candice Wegner, WDA Membership, CE & Strategic Partnerships Specialist, by phone 414-755-4118 or email cwegner@wda.org.

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