The University of Iowa Department of Orthodontics is proud to announce that Dr. Emma Mueldener, assistant professor in the Department of Orthodontics, has been awarded a $20,000 grant to participate in the American Association of Orthodontics Foundation (AAOF) Legacy Collection project. This initiative aims to preserve and digitize historically significant orthodontic research materials, making them accessible to educators, researchers, and clinicians worldwide. Dr. Mueldener’s work will focus on digitizing and curating the Iowa Growth Study collection, a treasure trove of records that includes physical measurements, dental casts, analog X-rays, and other research data. By contributing to this effort, the University of Iowa is helping to ensure that these invaluable resources are preserved for future generations and made available to advance orthodontic teaching and research. 

The Iowa Growth Study collection is a cornerstone of orthodontic research, offering insights into craniofacial development and treatment outcomes over time. Under Dr. Mueldener’s leadership, the department has already made significant progress in organizing and digitizing these records. This includes creating a comprehensive database, anonymizing digital images, and developing protocols to ensure the accuracy and accessibility of the data. Once digitized, the collection will be transferred to the AAOF Legacy Collection, where it will join other foundational resources available to researchers globally. This project not only highlights the University of Iowa’s commitment to advancing orthodontic science but also underscores the importance of collaboration in preserving and sharing knowledge that can shape the future of the field. 

The impact of this grant extends far beyond the digitization process. By contributing to the AAOF Legacy Collection, the University of Iowa is helping to create a centralized, accessible repository of orthodontic research that will benefit educators, students, and investigators worldwide. This effort will enable researchers to build upon the Iowa Growth Study’s findings, fostering innovation and improving patient care. Dr. Mueldener’s dedication to this project exemplifies the department’s mission to advance orthodontic education and research, ensuring that the University of Iowa remains at the forefront of the field. Nevertheless, this work would not be possible without the tireless work of our exceptional team: Calvin Gehring, Daniella Remulla, Mary Young, Katherine Milder, and CeCe Van Kooten. We look forward to the completion of this project in 2027 and the lasting impact it will have on orthodontics for years to come.