Pacific Dental Services Foundation Awards Over $60,000 in Fall 2024 Dental Assistant Scholarships

The PDS Foundation has provided more than $1.7 million in scholarships since 2016.

IRVINE, Calif. Oct. 7, 2024 – The Pacific Dental Services^® (PDS) Foundation has awarded over $60,000 in scholarships through the Fall 2024 cycle of the Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship, providing financial support to 17 aspiring dental assistants as they pursue their education.

As the demand for dental assistants (DAs) continues to grow amid a national shortage, the Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship plays a critical role in helping aspiring DAs launch their careers. A recent report indicates that one-third of DAs are expected to retire within the next five years, intensifying the shortage and increasing the need for new talent in dental offices nationwide (ADA Health Policy Institute, 2022).

Recognizing this challenge, the PDS Foundation established the scholarship to ensure students receive the financial support necessary to complete their education. Named in honor of Carolyn Ghazal, DDS, a member of the PDS Foundation Board of Directors, the scholarship not only provides need-based financial aid but also mentorship and on-the-job training, with the goal of shaping passionate, servant-hearted leaders in the dental field.

“It's incredibly inspiring to witness each new class of dental assistants, knowing they will play an essential role in dental offices across the country,” said Dr. Ghazal. “With the current shortage of DAs, this scholarship helps build a pipeline of qualified professionals to meet growing demand and ensures these students are prepared for success in a rewarding career.”

Scholarships are awarded on a quarterly basis to help cover tuition costs, which often pose a barrier for students completing their certification. Applicants are evaluated based on financial need, career aspirations, commitment to service, and other criteria.

Since its establishment in 2016, the PDS Foundation has awarded over $1.7 million in financial assistance to support more than 300 students pursuing careers in the dental field.

“The PDS Foundation is proud to offer this scholarship and to support these remarkable students as they begin their journey toward becoming dental assistants,” said Michael Le, Executive Director of the PDS Foundation. “The Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship not only opens doors for students but also helps cultivate future leaders who will continue to shape and strengthen our industry.”

The next scholarship application deadline is Nov. 1, 2024. For more information or to apply, please visit pdsfoundation.org/programs/scholarships.

Students from the following accredited dental assistant programs across the U.S. were awarded the Fall 2024 Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship: