Creating Opportunities for Historically Underrepresented Communities in the Field of Dentistry

By Lora Vitek on October 13, 2023 in Corporate Social Responsibility

At Delta Dental of Illinois, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality oral healthcare. This commitment extends to historically underrepresented communities, where access to dental care can be a challenge. That’s why we’re proud to partner with the Hispanic Dental Association Foundation, the charitable arm of the Hispanic Dental Association (HDA), an organization passionate about improving oral health within the Hispanic community. 

Delta Dental of Illinois Invests in the Future of Dental Students 

The Hispanic Dental Association has long been a beacon of hope for those in the Hispanic community seeking to improve their oral health. With a mission rooted in education, advocacy, mentorship, leadership, and service, the Hispanic Dental Association Foundation is committed to supporting students through the educational process by awarding grants and scholarships to individuals with strong support from corporate partners and individual donors. As part of this program, the HDA Foundation aims to mentor and support underrepresented minorities in pursuing a career in the dental profession. 

As part of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, Delta Dental of Illinois is committed to creating opportunities for historically underrepresented communities in the field of dentistry. In 2023, Delta Dental of Illinois contributed $38,750 to the HDA Foundation to provide five dental students and one dental hygiene student with a scholarship to continue their education and make a difference in the Hispanic community. 

When selecting scholarship recipients, the HDA Foundation thoroughly evaluates the candidate's impact on the Hispanic community through their community service, career goals, and leadership. They strive to identify individuals who have the potential to make a significant difference in the community. 

We proudly congratulate the outstanding dental students who have been awarded this scholarship. We are thrilled to provide support for their journey ahead. 

• Evelyn Villeda Martinez 
• Samuel Romo 
• Erendira Palomio-Razo 
• Maria Flynn 
• Jazmin Serna 
• Fatima Munoz Martinez (Dental Hygienist) 

A Launchpad for Future Dentistry Leaders 

For the recipients of this scholarship, the support goes far beyond financial aid. It marks the beginning of a transformative journey. Students gain access to mentorship from the esteemed leaders of the HDA Foundation. Their mentorship is invaluable, providing guidance and support as these students embark on their paths toward a career in dentistry, with a specific dedication to serving the Hispanic community. 

Mentors have been chosen by the HDA Foundation and are all members of the HDA Foundation Board of Directors. These mentors will play a pivotal role in guiding the scholarship recipients as they take the next steps in their careers. 

Dr. Ricardo Mendoza, DDS, MS, FICD: Dr. Mendoza is a renowned specialist in pediatric dentistry with a master's degree from Boston University School of Graduate Dentistry. He is a valued Board of Trustee member on the HDA Foundation Board of Directors.  

Dr. Sarita Arteaga, D.M.D., M.A., M.A.G.D.: Dr. Arteaga holds a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree from the Bronx Municipal/Albert Einstein Hospital in Bronx, New York. She serves as President of the HDA Foundation Board of Directors and is a member of numerous dental associations, including the Hispanic Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and more.  

Dr. Jorge Rojas, DDS, MDS: Dr. Rojas has a Master Dental Surgery degree from the Oral Surgery Program at the Universidad Complutense of Madrid. Dr. Rojas is a Board of Trustee member on the HDA Foundation Board of Directors and is an active and current member of several professional organizations. 

Mrs. Paula Vogel, BA: Paula Vogel holds a Master of International Management with a focus on marketing, languages, and finance from Arizona State University. Mrs. Vogel currently serves as Vice President on the HDA Foundation Board of Directors, American Association of Women Dentists’ Smiles for Success Foundation, and more. 

Dr. Mario E. Ramos: Dr. Ramos is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He received his D.M.D. from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and a Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine at the Boston Children’s Hospital. He is currently a Board of Trustee member on the HDA Foundation Board of Directors.

 Our partnership with the Hispanic Dental Association Foundation is a natural extension of the Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation’s commitment to improving oral and overall health for all Illinoisians. We are not only investing in the education of dental professionals but also in the future of oral healthcare for the Hispanic community. By nurturing this new generation of dental leaders, we are sowing seeds for a legacy of care, compassion, and excellence.