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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chairside Recruitment Initiative Empowers Dental Hygienists to Inspire Future Professionals and Improve Access to Care in Underserved Communities 

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association and Delta Dental Foundation launch “Hygienist Inspired” program to address workforce shortages and increase diversity in dental hygiene 

CHICAGO, March 10, 2025 – The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA®) and the Delta Dental Foundation of Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana (DDF) are proud to announce the official launch of “Hygienist Inspired,” a chairside recruitment program designed to increase diversity and address workforce shortages in the dental hygiene profession and improve access to oral health care. 

The program is launching in nine pilot states: Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin, with plans for nationwide expansion over the next two years. The Foundations of Delta Dental in each pilot state are funding program ambassadors to lead recruiting in their states, following a successful ambassador training event last weekend, led in partnership by representatives from ADHA and the DDF.  

“Hygienist Inspired is founded on a simple yet profound belief—that dental hygienists are the strongest advocates for shaping the future of our profession and inspiring the next generation of professionals,” said Erin Haley-Hitz, ADHA president. “By harnessing the passion and influence of hygienists, this program not only sparks interest in a rewarding career but also encourages a more diverse and inclusive workforce that truly reflects the communities we serve.”  

The newly trained Hygienist Inspired Ambassadors will lead outreach efforts in their respective states, conducting both chairside recruitment in their operatories and participating in community events to raise awareness about careers in dental hygiene. Equipped with professionally designed recruitment materials that highlight career benefits—including flexible scheduling options and diverse practice settings—ambassadors can effectively communicate the rewards of joining the profession. 

“When we spoke with hygienists from traditionally underrepresented communities about how they chose their careers, we heard time and again that they were recruited chairside by their own hygienist,” says Dr. Holli Seabury, executive director of the DDF. “A personal invitation holds tremendous power and connection. While this program also directly addresses workforce growth, our primary goal is to increase diversity in the profession and improve access to care in underserved communities. People are more likely to pursue careers where they see themselves represented, which is why this approach of connecting diverse candidates with hygienists they can identify with is so important for both the profession and the communities we serve.” 

The program also introduces the role of “Hygienist Inspired Allies”—anyone who supports the mission to increase diversity in the profession and improve access to care. Allies pledge to promote dental hygiene careers by sharing program resources, advocating for the profession’s impact on oral health, and mentoring future hygienists. Allies can participate without the additional commitments required of Ambassadors, making it accessible for anyone to be a part of the program and contribute to the mission. 

“The Hygienist Inspired Ambassadors will serve as local leaders, not only recruiting directly but also encouraging other hygienists to become part of the campaign as Allies,” said Dr. Seabury. “The Ally role is open to everyone, creating a grassroots movement that multiplies our impact.” 

Key features of the Hygienist Inspired program include: 

  • A clear pathway for interested individuals to explore the dental hygiene profession through the ADHA website 
  • The RDH Ready Checklist, providing step-by-step guidance for those considering a dental hygiene career 
  • Connection to dental hygiene education programs, scholarship opportunities and mentorship 
  • Resources highlighting the diverse career paths in dental hygiene 
  • Multi-language materials tailored to diverse audiences, including parents, high  

For more information about the Hygienist Inspired program, please visit www.adha.org/hygienistinspired or email [email protected]. 

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About the American Dental Hygienists’ Association
The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) is the only organization representing the professional interests of the more than 220,000 dental hygienists in the United States. Dental hygienists are preventive oral health professionals, licensed in dental hygiene, who provide educational, clinical and therapeutic services that support total health through the promotion of optimal oral health. The Journal of Dental Hygiene (JDH), published bi-monthly, is ADHA’s scientific journal and flagship publication. To learn more about the ADHA, dental hygiene or the link between oral health and general health, visit adha.org.

About the Delta Dental Foundation
The Delta Dental Foundation is a nonprofit, charitable organization established in 1980, which serves as the philanthropic arm of Delta Dental of Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and North Carolina. The DDF is dedicated to developing and enhancing partnerships and programs to improve oral and overall health and health equity. For more information, visit www.deltadental.foundation.

 

Media Contacts

Bronwyn Barrera, MBA
ADHA
(312) 440-8911
[email protected]

Jen Anderson 
Delta Dental Foundation 
Ph: (517) 375-5507 
[email protected]