DELTA DENTAL PROMOTES JOHN GUMKOWSKI TO DIRECTOR, SALES AND MARKETING

PARSIPPANY, NJ (September 18, 2002) – Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey, Inc. announces the promotion of John Gumkowski to director, sales and marketing. In his new position, John will be responsible for the sales and service representatives in the Connecticut marketing office of Delta Dental, in addition to expanded responsibilities within the entire marketing and sales operation.

Mr. Gumkowski joined Delta Dental in 1994 as an account executive in the Connecticut office, bringing with him 12 years of employee benefits experience in underwriting and national account marketing. In recognition of his accomplishments, he was promoted to marketing manager in 1998. During his tenure, more than 100,000 primary subscribers have been added to the Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey subscriber base.

"Over the years, John has continually demonstrated professionalism and commitment to excellence," said Walter VanBrunt, president and CEO. "He has been instrumental in the success and growth of Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey and I look forward to working with him in his new capacity."

Mr. Gumkowski holds a B.S. degree from the University of Connecticut. He has been active in several Delta Dental Plan Association activities, including serving as chair of the National Tactical Skills meeting and participating in various marketing sub-committees. He currently resides in Vernon, Connecticut.

Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey, Inc., is New Jersey’s and Connecticut's leading dental benefits carrier, providing coverage to more than one million people through contracts with employers in New Jersey and Connecticut. The Delta Dental Plan system is a national network of independently operated, not-for-profit dental service corporations specializing in providing dental benefits programs for employee groups throughout the country. For more information visit us on the Web at www.deltadentalnj.com.