Changing of the guard at Delta Dental

Photo by Andy Cross, The Denver Post

Kate Paul recently retired from Delta Dental of Colorado after 15 years at the helm. The nonprofit organization committed to oral health prospered under Paul. Annual revenue increased by 122 percent — from $161 million to $358 million — and membership grew by 76 percent to a current high of 1.2 million. 

Delta Dental also increased its corporate philanthropy. She started the Delta Dental of Colorado Foundation and inspired such signature programs as the CU Heroes Clinic, which provides free dental care to student veterans of U.S. military service; Land of Smiles, which has helped 70,000 Colorado children learn about good dental health; and SpringRock Dental, which provides sliding-scale services.

To learn more about the impact Kate Paul had on Colorado oral health, go to:

CDPHE: Letter of thanks to Kate Paul
Denver Post: Even at her own retirement party, Kate Paul is a leader in philanthropy

Denver Post: Kate Paul: From “dirt poor” and covered in kidney guts to CEO

Denver Business Journal: Delta Dental CEO, a groundbreaking female business leader, to retire

Delta Dental Colorado has hired Helen Drexler, an experienced health care executive, as the new president and CEO. Drexler most recently served as regional vice president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, a health insurance provider serving more than 39 million people nationwide. Drexler has worked in a variety of leadership roles with Anthem for the past 30 years, including 15 years in Colorado. 

Delta Dental press release: Delta Dental names new president and CEO