Silvia Santellano ’21: AAPHD Award for Achievement in Community Dentistry and Dental Public Health

Silvia Santellano ’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 Maria Guerrero ‘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, Santellano earned support from multiple donor-supported funds at Pacific University, including the College of Health Professions Diversity Endowed Scholarship, Dennis Muir Scholarship Award, School of Dental Hygiene Studies Alumni & Friends Endowed Scholarship, WCDS Scholarship Fund, and Willamette Dental Scholarship Fund.

Guerrero, who is from Los Angeles, 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.