The PDS Foundation has granted over $1.5 million in scholarships since 2016.

The Pacific Dental Services® (PDS) Foundation proudly announces the Winter 2023 Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship recipients, a remarkable group of 24 dental assisting (DA) students who collectively received over $100,000 to help cover tuition expenses.

The scholarship comes at an important time in the dental industry. According to a recent report from the American Dental Association Health Policy Institute, the dental industry is currently experiencing a significant workforce shortage, with vacant dental assisting positions contributing to a 10 percent reduction in dental practice capacity nationwide. Moreover, financial hardship often prevents many enrolled DA students from finishing school.

Recognizing the importance of DAs to the future of dentistry, the PDS Foundation created this scholarship to provide students with the financial support they need to complete their education. Named after Carolyn Ghazal, DDS, a member of the PDS Foundation Board of Directors, this educational scholarship provides DA students with need-based financial aid, mentorship, on-the-job training, and aims to mold the next generation of passionate, servant-hearted dental leaders.

“Serving on the scholarship committee and engaging with our applicants is one of the highlights of my role,” said Dr. Ghazal. “Empowering aspiring dental assistants across the country is our priority. That's why we offer comprehensive support and financial aid, so students can focus on their studies and pursue a successful career in dental assisting with confidence.”

Scholarships are awarded on a quarterly basis to DA students to help cover tuition expenses. The Scholarship Review Committee awards scholarships based on applicants' financial need, heart for service, career aspirations, and other criteria.

Since its establishment in 2016, the PDS Foundation has granted over $1.5 million in scholarships to support the educational pursuits of over 260 students in the dental field.

Michael Le, Executive Director of the PDS Foundation, said, “Our mission is to empower aspiring dental assistants to become influential leaders in oral health. Through their journeys of personal and professional growth, we stand alongside them by investing in their future. We are grateful for the community's unwavering commitment to helping these students achieve a brighter tomorrow.”

The application deadline for the next dental assistant scholarship is Feb. 1. To learn more or apply, please visit pdsfoundation.org/programs/scholarships.

Winter 2023 Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship Recipients: