Delta Dental Invests $1 Million to Shape the Future of Oral Health Careers
Delta Dental Invests $1 Million to Shape the Future of Oral Health Careers
In a major initiative to enhance the future workforce of oral health professionals, Delta Dental Institute has announced a generous funding of $1 million through its Future Workforce Fund. This investment aims to support five prominent organizations dedicated to raising awareness of careers in oral health and inspiring children to envision themselves as future dental professionals.
October 9, 2025, marks the announcement of the third annual class of awardees under the Delta Dental Future Workforce Fund. James W. Hutchison, the President and CEO of Delta Dental Plans Association, expressed pride in these awards, asserting their potential to significantly impact young people's awareness of oral health careers. “We are confident that these organizations will drive awareness of oral health careers and inspire our young people to explore opportunities in the dental field.” He emphasized the growing need to fill these critical roles and reaffirmed Delta Dental’s commitment as the nation’s foremost oral health philanthropist and leading dental benefits provider.
Awardees Making a Difference
The selected organizations receiving funding are making strides in unique ways:
1. American Dental Education Association - Their Pathways to Smiles program offers an interactive and hands-on curriculum in partnership with Area Health Education Centers across the country, emphasizing the vital connection between oral health and overall wellness.
2. American Dental Hygienists' Association - With their Hygienist Inspired program, they focus on recruiting and outreach to redefine awareness of the dental hygiene profession, using existing hygienists to mentor and inspire within underrepresented communities.
3. Hispanic Dental Association - Their Building our Leaders in Dentistry (BOLD) program acts as a mentorship platform aimed at encouraging underrepresented minorities to enter the dental profession, particularly targeting schools in underserved areas to stimulate interest in health-related careers.
4. Mentorships in Dentistry, Inc. (MIND) - The MIND Youth Summit program fosters mentorship and engagement between dental professionals and students aiming for careers in oral health, revitalizing passion and commitment towards dental service.
5. Society of American Indian Dentists - Their Telling the Story of a Path to Dentistry initiative connects American Indian and Alaska Native dentists with youth to enlighten them about career paths in dentistry, thus promoting greater representation in the dental field.
Delivering Meaningful Investments
The impact of Delta Dental’s Future Workforce Fund extends beyond mere financial assistance; it aims to elevate awareness about oral health careers and provide a framework for children to consider potential futures in these professions. As Delta Dental cultivates its legacy in oral health leadership, this funding opens doors to new experiences and educational pathways, ensuring a strong workforce for the future.
The application period for the next round of funding will commence in Spring 2026. Those interested in learning more about the initiative or wishing to apply can visit Delta Dental Institute.
About Delta Dental Institute
The Delta Dental Institute passionately advocates for oral health across America, partnering with Delta Dental companies and organizations nationwide. Their dedication to effective oral health solutions through education, outreach, and research ensures everyone understands the significance of oral health and has access to essential dental care.
About Delta Dental Plans Association
Located in Chicago, Illinois, the Delta Dental Plans Association is the national association representing 39 independent Delta Dental companies. Leveraging the collective strength of these companies, Delta Dental stands as the largest dental benefits provider in the United States, with an extensive network of approximately 151,000 participating dentists. Over the past 15 years, they have invested above $2.3 billion towards enhancing the oral and overall health of communities nationwide.
Delta Dental continues to pave the way for a brighter future in oral health, proving that investing in the next generation is essential for vibrant and healthier communities.
Topics Health）
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