New scholarship promotes infection control education and certification
In a collaborative effort to champion dental infection control, the Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP); the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB); and the DALE Foundation proudly announce the launch of the OSAP-DANB-DALE Foundation Andrew Whitehead Education and Certification Scholarship.
Committed to the belief that every dental professional plays a pivotal role in ensuring safe and high-quality dental care, this scholarship was specifically created to provide infection prevention and control education and certification to individuals working in dentistry.
The scholarship is open to all dental professionals with at least 1,040 hours of work experience. Scholarship recipients will receive access to educational materials and will have the certification exam fees covered to become Certified in Dental Infection Prevention and Control (CDIPC) or Dental Industry Specialist in Infection Prevention and Control (DISIPC) certified.
The CDIPC certification is for individuals who practice clinically or manage, train, or consult individuals who practice clinically, and the DISIPC certification is for dental professionals who do not work in clinical settings.
This scholarship not only honors the impact of Andrew Whitehead on the field, but also addresses the need to remove financial barriers in accessing infection prevention and control knowledge. By supporting education and certification, OSAP, DANB, and the DALE Foundation strive to support those working in dentistry so they are well positioned to ensure the ongoing safety and well-being of both patients and practitioners.
Applications will be accepted through April 1, 2024, and winners will be selected by June 1, 2024.
About Andrew Whitehead
Andrew “Andy” Whitehead has over 50 years of extensive experience in the dental profession. As a founding member of the Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP), he currently holds the position of Chief Engagement & Relationship Officer. Throughout his remarkable career, Andy has taken on various leadership roles, including interim Executive Director, Chairman of the OSAP Association, and Chairman of the OSAP Foundation.
His executive background includes serving in key positions with industry giants Patterson Dental, Henry Schein, and Crosstex. Andy has also contributed his expertise to the American Dental Assistants Association and Dental Trade Alliance Foundation Boards.
In addition to his professional commitments, Andy is actively involved with the America’s Dentists Cares Foundation Board. Notably, he is recognized for his fundraising and auctioneer skills, having raised over $3 million for OSAP and other nonprofits within the dental industry. Andy’s dedication and multifaceted contributions have left a lasting impact on the dental community.
About OSAP
The Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP) is the only nonprofit membership association for oral healthcare professionals that focuses exclusively on infection prevention and patient and provider safety. OSAP’s mission is to be the leading provider of infection prevention and control education, training, and credentialing that supports safe dental visits.
About DANB
The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) is recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) as the national certification board for dental assistants. DANB’s mission is to promote the public good by providing credentialing services to the dental community.
About the DALE Foundation
The Dental Advancement through Learning and Education Foundation (the DALE Foundation) is the official DANB affiliate. The DALE Foundation’s mission is to benefit the public by providing quality education and conducting sound research to promote oral health.