John Hodge, D.M.D., The Meridian Star Readers’ Choice Man of the Year, received his B.S. from The University of Mississippi, his D.M.D. from University of Mississippi Medical Center and an M.S. from Oklahoma University. He and his wife, Joanie, have been married since 1991 and have four children – Michael, Mary Love, Madeleine and Miller.

Dr. Hodge is a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, past member St. Patrick School Board, past member MYSO Board, past Miss. Director of Southern Association of Orthodontics, Past President of Miss. Dental Association, District 3 and current President of Miss. Association of Orthodontists

Over the years, he has enjoyed supporting various city youth baseball teams, soccer teams, the Junior Auxiliary of Meridian, the Distinguished Young Women program, Jeannie’s Place at Planet Playground, an many other civic organizations.

The Meridian Star posed a few questions to Dr. Hodge. His responses follow.

How do you feel about receiving the Readers Choice Award?

I am very humbled to receive this award. I believe my purpose in life is to be a good Christian and what extends from that is caring for others, working hard, being fair and setting a good example. I never imagined that along the way I would be recognized as “man of the year”.

What led you into your career?

I became interested in orthodontics in high school and never looked back. My neighbor, while growing up in Laurel, MS, was an orthodontist and he sparked my interest in the field. The more I learned about it, the more I wanted to become one. Once I entered college at the University of MS, I was focused on my goal. That focus continued when I was accepted into the dental program at UMMC and then, four years later, when accepted into orthodontic school.

Describe yourself in one word:

Positive

To what do you attribute your success?

I attribute my success to my hard work and desire to offer the best service possible while being respectful to others and treating people fairly. In addition to these, I fondly attribute my success to my wife, Joanie, who has supported me during my entire journey.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy a lot about my job but most satisfying is providing a beautiful smile for my patients. A smile is gift that each of us can give to one another on a daily basis and I am glad to be a part of that. I have also had the pleasure of getting to know a lot of wonderful families across our area while providing their orthodontic care. Building relationships with these families is an extra bonus of my job! I love seeing my patients excel in life.

What do you like to do in your free time?

A big part of my life (since we began having children) has involved youth athletics. I have always encouraged our children to be involved in sports and be a part of various sports teams. In doing so I have been able to teach our children the importance of working hard, working together as a team and at times making sacrifices.

What do you see in your future?

In the future, I see myself continuing to work hard and giving to others (especially to those in my community.) I also look forward to many family get-togethers and possibly some traveling.

What does a typical day look like for you?

A typical day is awesome. I have the greatest staff that is super organized and upbeat. They can make a challenging day simple and fun.

If you could say something to the people of Meridian and Lauderdale County, what would it be?

Thank you. Thank you for trusting me over the years to provide a beautiful smile for you, or your children, or your spouse, or your grandchildren.

A copy of the Readers’ Choice Awards may be found in the Friday, May 31, Meridian Star.