Recipients awarded dental infection control scholarship

Fifty dental professionals have been awarded the ADS-DANB-DALE Foundation Andrew Whitehead Education and Certification Scholarship. The scholarship provides infection prevention and control education and certification to individuals working in dentistry and removes financial barriers to help dental professionals access these important resources and credentials.

The scholarship was conceived by Andrew (Andy) Whitehead and his family, who generously provided the initial funding, supported by key partners from both the dental industry and profession. Through Andy’s extensive leadership experience with Henry Schein, Patterson, and Crosstex, he gained an appreciation for the critical role dental team members play in driving practice success and strong patient relationships. These insights inspired him to create a scholarship dedicated to supporting the growth and impact of dental professionals.

Launched in 2024, the scholarship is the result of a collaborative effort between the Association for Dental Safety (ADS), the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), and the DALE Foundation, based on the shared belief that every dental professional plays a pivotal role in ensuring safe and high-quality dental care.

Recipients will receive complimentary access to the Dental Infection Prevention and Control Certificate program or to the educational materials and exam to become Certified in Dental Infection Prevention and Control (CDIPC) or Dental Industry Specialist in Infection Prevention and Control (DISIPC) certified. They will also receive one year of complimentary ADS premium membership.

The scholarship recipients serve in a variety of positions in dentistry, including dental assisting, dental hygiene, dental office management, and other dental roles.

About Andrew Whitehead

Andrew “Andy” Whitehead has over 50 years of extensive experience in the dental profession. As a founding member of the Association for Dental Safety (ADS), 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 ADS Association, and Chairman of the ADS 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 Care Foundation Board. Notably, he is recognized for his fundraising and auctioneer skills, having raised over $3 million for ADS and other nonprofits within the dental industry. Andy’s dedication and multifaceted contributions have left a lasting impact on the dental community.

About ADS

The Association for Dental Safety (ADS) — formerly known as the Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP) — is the only nonprofit membership association for oral healthcare professionals that focuses exclusively on dental infection prevention and patient and provider safety. ADS helps operationalize dental infection control and safety laws, regulations, guidelines, standards, and best practices to ensure every dental visit is a safe visit.

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.