Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Dr. Joseph E. Baptiste learned early the necessity and value of a good education. The son of an attorney-father and an accountant-mother, Dr. Baptiste focused early on a career in the medical profession because of his attraction to healing, restoration, and rebuilding the health of people.

Dr. Baptiste immigrated to the United States from his native Haiti when he was 15 years old. Dr. Baptiste completed secondary school in Chicago then matriculated through the University of Illinois Circle Campus where he completed his Bachelor of Science degree in biology-chemistry. Following a one-year term as a Microbiological Researcher with Johnson Product & Company Research Center in Chicago, Dr. Baptiste attended the prestigious Howard University School of Dentistry where he excelled in the study of dentistry. Upon receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, Dr. Baptiste answered the call of military service by the US Army where he completed his dental surgical residency program. For four years, he actively served his adopted country as staff Dental Surgeon at Walson Army Hospital Center. Later as an Army Major, he was called to serve on active duty in Iraq during the Desert Storm campaign of 1991. As in all his undertakings, Dr. Baptiste has distinguished himself and has rose to the rank of Colonel. Recently, Dr. Baptiste was once again called upon to go to Iraq; this time as chief of a medical/dental detachment to defend the Global War On Terrorism “Defending Freedom” mission. Dr. Baptiste completed his duties in a superlative manner. An already highly decorated soldier, Dr. Baptiste was awarded the National Defense Service medal, The Global War on Terrorism Service medal, the Armed forces Expeditionary Medal, The Army Meritorious Unit Award, Army achievement Medal and the Army Commendation medal. He is the Chief of Dental Services of the 2290th USAR at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

As if Dr. Baptiste’s military career was not distinguished enough and his commitment to country and the larger global community was not so acknowledged, Dr. Baptiste is also recognized in the dental community as one of the most skilled dental health surgeons in the nation. The Governor of Maryland named Dr. Baptiste a member of the State Board of Dental Examiner in 2000. His private practice, J.B Dental Implant and Reconstruction Center, located in downtown Silver Spring, Maryland is recognized as one of the most advanced in the field of implantology. A pioneer in his discipline, he holds a Mastership at the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction that only 10 percent of his peers has attained.  He is also a Diplomat of the International Congress of Implantology, and a Fellow and Diplomat of the prestigious American Academy of Implant Dentistry and the American College of Forensic Examiners. Among some of his professional awards include Who’s Who among Outstanding Americans and Who’s Who among Outstanding Executives and Professionals.  He was named by the Washingtonian Magazine in the Top 100 Best Doctors in the Washington, DC, Maryland, Virginia area. Most recently, Howard University recognized Dr Baptiste, as its most Outstanding Alumni of the year 2009.

Dr. Baptiste has also distinguished himself in the United States and back in his home of birth, The Republic of Haiti, by establishing in 1991 the leading social policy advocacy organization on Haiti in the United States, The National Organization for the Advancement of Haitians (NOAH). From its inception, NOAH, has played a pivotal role in addressing some of the social and economical needs of the poor and disenfranchised by sponsoring medical and dental screenings in Haiti 10 years running; ensuring that portable water is accessible for an entire village; and when necessary, influence United State policy vis-à-vis Haiti. To be sure, under the leadership of Dr. Baptiste, NOAH has also partnered with the fourth largest bank in Haiti, Promobank — forming PROMOCAPITAL, a venture capital bank to bring together experienced, competent Haitians and Haitian-Americans leaders to create an investment infrastructure with global potential to contribute to the future welfare of the local community in Haiti and in America. Over 10 million dollars have been invested in Haiti’s local economy as a direct result of NOAH’s investment initiatives.

In closing, Dr. Baptiste is a highly decorated soldier, an accomplished and accredited dental surgeon, and a recognized community leader. He has a strong record of community service, serves on numerous boards, and has been recognized by governors, members of congress, and by presidents. He continues to stay engaged in his homeland by the giving of his time and resources. Not only is he a soldier’s soldier, a Master Dentist, and a bridge builder, but he is also a visionary.