Dr. Hagenbruch Receives Vision Award
FROM THE GROUND UP: Inside the CDS Foundation by Dr. Vincent Arpino, DDS

Each year, the Chicago Dental Society Foundation Vision Award is presented to a remarkable individual whose volunteerism, philanthropy, and dedication to improving access to care truly stand out. The recipients of this award exemplify professional integrity, generosity, and mentorship, inspiring others to follow their example.

This year, we are proud to present the 2025 Vision Award to someone who embodies all these qualities and more: Dr. Joseph Hagenbruch. Dr. Hagenbruch is a graduate of the Washington University School of Dental Medicine and has been a dedicated general dentist in Harvard, IL, for over 37 years. Throughout his career, he has held numerous leadership roles, including serving as president of the Illinois State Dental Society, the Illinois Academy of General Dentistry, and the McHenry County Dental Society. He also served as a Trustee for the American Dental Association, representing the Eighth District from 2010 to 2014.

His influence extends far beyond clinical practice. Dr. Hagenbruch is a mentor to many, a staunch advocate for ethics in dentistry, and a guiding force in organized dentistry at every level.

The Chicago Dental Society Foundation Vision Award is presented to a remarkable individual whose volunteerism, philanthropy, and dedication to improving access to care truly stand out.
Among his many achievements, one stands out as truly transformative: the establishment of the McHenry County Cooperative Dental Clinic in 1996. Through his leadership and collaboration with the McHenry County Dental Society and the McHenry County Department of Health, this clinic became a lifeline for low-income residents, offering services such as oral exams, cleanings, basic fillings, and extractions.

The clinic was one of the first recipients of funding through the Community Development Block Grant program and continued to thrive, ultimately merging with the Family Health Partnership Clinic in 2017. Thanks to Dr. Hagenbruch’s vision and dedication, thousands of underserved patients – more than 3,600 to date – have received critical dental care.

Dr. Hagenbruch’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2007, he received the “Healthy Smiles Hero Award” from Illinois Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn for his efforts to increase access to care across Illinois. In 2019, he was honored with the Distinguished Member of the Illinois State Dental Society Award for his exceptional volunteerism and care for underserved populations.
Dr. Hagenbruch’s vision has led to more than 3,600 underserved patients receiving critical dental care.
Dr. Hagenbruch’s commitment to improving access to care and steadfast dedication to his community are a beacon of hope and an inspiration to all of us. He reminds us of the profound impact one person can have when they lead with passion, integrity, and selflessness.

We honor not just his accomplishments but the spirit behind them – his unwavering belief that everyone deserves access to quality dental care. Congratulations, Dr. Joseph Hagenbruch, on being named the 2025 Chicago Dental Society Foundation Vision Award recipient. Your extraordinary contributions inspire us all to serve with purpose and heart.