Wallace State Community College recently hosted a pinning ceremony for its Dental Hygiene program’s Class of 2025.

In her address to the students, Program Director Susan Brewer emphasized the importance of oral health care and the positive impact these graduates will have on patient care in Alabama. She pointed out the significant contributions the graduates have already made to the community, having treated 1,878 patients, including 638 children and adolescents, 266 senior adults, and 546 special needs and medically compromised patients.

“You have faced challenges, overcome obstacles, and continually pushed yourselves to excel. And excel you did,” Brewer said.

Instructor Halli Melton said the Class of 2025 showed a great deal of initiative right from the beginning. Many of the students worked outside of their required clinical times to complete their requirements early.

“Faculty have been remarkably impressed with your tenacity to further your skills,” Melton said.

Several awards were presented to outstanding graduates:
— Dental Hygiene Program Award: Lauren Russell of Mount Olive
— Dental Hygiene Club Award, Jane Barber Memorial Award and Academic Excellence Award: Mackenzie Groves of Albertville
— Irene Newman Award: Samantha Mahoney of Warrior
— Douglas Allen Memorial Award: Denise Castillo of Bessemer
— Jane Barber Memorial Award: Mackenzie Groves of Albertville
— Academic Excellence Award: Shannon McMurtrey of Boaz, Bethany Noah of Gadsden, Hui Deng of Guntersville, Mackenzie Groves of Albertville
— Hu-Friedy Golden Scaler: Mackenzie Keel of Harvest
— Colgate Star Award: Anastasia Skidmore of Jasper
— Spirit Award: Jessica Martinez of Russellville, Ben Alvarado-Gonzales of Oneonta, Karen Tran of Florence
“Enjoy this moment to the fullest because you have earned it. Embrace the privilege and responsibility that comes with being a dental hygienist,” Brewer said.