The School of Dental Hygiene has once again demonstrated its excellence on the national stage, as several faculty members showcased their expertise and dedication at the American Dental Education Association's Annual Session in New Orleans, LA. Among them, two outstanding individuals, Jessica Suedbeck and Sam Vest, were recognized for their remarkable contributions.
Jessica Suedbeck, Assistant Professor and Senior Clinic Coordinator, was recognized with the prestigious ADEAGies Foundation Junior Faculty Achievement in Allied Oral Health Education award, a testament to her exemplary work and leadership.
Sam Vest, Lecturer in the ODU School of Dental Hygiene, was recognized by the PRIDE (Promoting Respect for Identity Dignity and Expression) Section with an Award for Service and Leadership. They were recognized for their efforts in diversity and inclusion, specifically as it relates to LGBTQ+ populations.
Ann Bruhn, Chair and Associate Professor, served as the Chair Elect for the Council of Allied Program Directors, and is now the Chair of this group. Professor Bruhn also presented a research poster on the Dental Summer Health Institute, and was an author on another poster.
Brenda Bradshaw, Assistant Professor and Entry-Level Program Director, served as the Chair Elect of the Graduate Dental Hygiene Education Special Interest Group and has now moved into the Chair position.
Dr. Denise McKinney, Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director, served as a delegate for the Council of Allied Program Directors, member of the ADEA Annual Session Planning Committee, and presented a poster at the ADEA International Women Leadership Conference. She was an author for another poster that was presented.
Emily Ludwig, Assistant Professor, served as the secretary for the Section on Dental Hygiene Education and is now stepping into the Chair Elect position for the section.
Jessica Suedbeck also served as the secretary for the Dental Hygiene Clinic Coordinators Special Interest Group and has now moved into the Chair Elect position. She presented a poster on the Simulated Patient Experience and student perceptions research related to that experience.
Congratulations to Jessica Suedbeck, Sam Vest, and all dental hygiene faculty representatives for their outstanding contributions to the field of dental hygiene education. Your achievements bring pride to our college and reinforce our commitment to shaping the future of healthcare professionals.