First cohort graduates from Dental Assisting Program

Members of Gadsden State's first Dental Assisting cohort at Fall Commencement

The Dental Assisting Program graduated its first cohort in December 2023. Students had to complete 65 hours of dental science training for an Associate in Applied Science or 49 hours of training for a certificate. Students were encouraged to complete their general education courses before entering the Dental Assisting Program. 

Students were trained in a hands-on dental lab that was once the Student Center on the Valley Street Campus. The lab features professional-grade dental chairs, tools and equipment as well as a dental impression lab and x-ray equipment. 

“This is a very demanding and challenging program that provides a lot of hands-on experience on campus before they move to local dental practices for observation and clinicals,” said Karen Tyree, program director. 

The first class of new dental assistants includes Madalyn Buice of Steele; Jessica Duke of Ohatchee; JheriMaya Ellis of Gadsden; Jasmin Esparza of Wellington; Jennifer Le of Weaver; Kelsey Ruiz of Sand Rock; Lauren Smith of Gadsden and Haley Wright of Munford.

Tyree said plans are in the works to expand the Dental Science Program to include credentials in dental hygiene. 

“The Dental Science Program is going to continue to grow,” she said. “The program is a great benefit to this area. Students no longer have to drive to other cities to train as dental assistants, and doctors don’t have to look outside of our community to find good assistants. This is a wonderful program for the communities Gadsden State serves.” 

To be considered for the Dental Assisting Program, students must fulfill the following admission requirements:

  • Be in good standing with Gadsden State
  • Maintain a C or better on all general and pre-DAT courses
  • Have a least a 2.0 GPA on general education courses
  • Pass a criminal and consumer background check
  • Pass a drug test
  • Meet the essential functions required by the DAT program

For more information, visit www.GadsdenState.edu/DentalAssisting.