Maria Guerrero ’21: AAPHD Award for Achievement in Community Dentistry and Dental Public Health

Maria Guerrero ’21 received the American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD) Award for Achievement in Community Dentistry and Dental Public Health from the Pacific University School of Dental Hygiene Studies.

Fellow student Silvia Santellano ‘21 also received the award.

“These two students have demonstrated a great interest in pursuing future careers as public health providers,” professors wrote. “During their dental hygiene education, they have both dedicated their time to providing care or education to the underserved population in this difficult time. Both students have equally committed time and effort to participate in multiple events despite their heavy academic and clinical load.”

As a student, Guerrero served as president of the Pacific University student chapter of the Hispanic Dental Association.

Guerrero, who is from Beaverton, Ore., earned a bachelor of science in dental hygiene, or BSDH, from Pacific University in August 2021.

The School of Dental Hygiene Studies offers a two-year bachelor’s degree that prepares future dental hygienists with a particular focus on interprofessional care and public health service.