DTA Foundation and Benco Family Foundation Launch Dental Hygiene Scholarship

In a new initiative to address the shortage of dental hygienists in the United States, the Dental Trade Alliance (DTA) Foundation, in collaboration with the Benco Family Foundation, has opened applications for their dental hygiene scholarship program. Made possible by the Lawrence and Sally Cohen Endowed Scholarship Fund for Dental Hygiene, this program aims to provide financial support to aspiring dental hygienists from underrepresented communities, according to a press release from the DTA.

The $1 million legacy gift from the Benco Family Foundation has paved the way for a new endowment, ensuring sustained support for future dental hygienists. Recognizing the critical role dental hygienists play in bridging the gap in oral health care access, especially for marginalized populations, this scholarship program seeks to empower individuals who historically lacked opportunities in the field.

Sarah Miller, Executive Director of the DTA Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative in the press release, stating, "This new dental hygiene scholarship in honor of Larry & Sally Cohen will impact so many aspiring dental hygienists and oral health for years to come. Dental hygienists play a critical role in increasing access to oral health care, especially for marginalized and underserved communities. We are proud to be a part of this exciting new initiative with the Benco Family Foundation."

The application period for the scholarship, available on the DTA Foundation website, runs from March 11 to April 30, 2024. Prospective candidates will be required to answer short essay questions and submit a 2-minute video detailing their background and future aspirations in dental hygiene, per the press release.

Julie Radzyminski, Interim Executive Director of Benco Family Foundation, expressed excitement about the partnership in the press release, emphasizing the pivotal role dental hygienists play in preventive dental care. "We are excited once again to partner with the DTA Foundation to provide scholarship for dental hygienists. Dental hygienists are the first line of prevention for a dental office and are a crucial piece of complete oral health wellness.”

In addition to financial support, the scholarship includes a contribution from Young Innovations, which will provide a collection of preventive items, a set of scrubs, and $500 for school supplies to the selected student, according to the press release. This additional assistance aims to alleviate the financial burden often placed on aspiring dental hygienists.

"Expanding the dental hygiene profession and ensuring access to care have become industry-wide missions, and Young is honored to serve and support this initiative in partnership with the Dental Trade Alliance Foundation," stated Jamie Falasz, Strategic Business Development Manager for Young Innovations.

Those interested in applying for this scholarship can do so by getting in touch with Miller at sarahmiller@dentaltradealliance.org or call 703-379-7755.