The National Dental Association, together with the Student National Dental Association, National Dental Hygienists' Association, National Dental Assistants' Association, Auxiliary to the National Dental Association, the Undergraduate Student National Dental Association, and the National Dental Association Foundation, form a strong "family" of organizations working in partnership to advance and health equity.
While each of these organizations is independent and guided by its own leadership teams and boards, we are united in purpose. Together, we collaborate to advance oral health equity for communities of color. We encourage you to explore each of these organizations below, visit their websites, and give them your support! By supporting this family of organizations, you are helping to strengthen the pathways for diverse dental professionals, expand access to care, and move us closer to achieving true equity in oral health.
The National Dental Association Foundation, a 501 (c) 3, was formed in 1970 to pursue charitable, educational and scientific/research endeavors. Since then, the Foundation has been successful in promoting its ambitious agenda by awarding millions of dollars in scholarships to minority oral health professional students, and funding research programs at the nation's most prominent Historically Black Colleges and institutions.
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Founded in 1972, the Student National Dental Association (SNDA) has been fulfilling its purpose of promoting good fellowship and cooperation among its members and aiding in the advancement of minority students in dentistry. It has furthered these purposes through publication of a newsletter, organization of the Annual Convocation, liaison with other national dental groups such as the American Student Dental Association, and by assisting elected minority dental students financially, and all minority dental students interested in becoming actively involved with other dental students.
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The Undergraduate Student National Dental Association (USNDA) is the advancement and retention of minority students within the field of dentistry. Providing support to undergraduate and pre-dental students is one of the ways we are able to increase diversity within our career field. To accomplish this goal, SNDA chapters should reach out to candidates for dental school at the undergraduate level. Undergraduate students need both guidance and exposure to dentistry, as opposed to general information provided through an organization that is already serving in several areas of health care and professions. The Membership at-large is to serve as a liaison between SNDA and USNDA chapters and members.
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Founded in 1932, the National Dental Hygienists' Association (NDHA) has been committed to the professional development needs of its members. Since its inception, the objective was to address the professional concerns of African American dental hygienists. Through the years, the organization has grown and in 1982 it became an affiliate of the National Dental Association. The goal of the time was to develop a network of communication and camaraderie among its members. The NDHA offers limited financial support to students of color through its scholarships that are awarded annually. Students do not need to be a member of NDHA to email membership fee.
The National Dental Assistants Association (NDAA) is the auxiliary arm of the NDA dedicated to serving the thousands of minority Dental Assistants in the field today. The NDAA provides professional development resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy for dental assistants across the country who are committed to advancing oral health equity in underserved communities.
The ANDA has been for many years a support group for the spouses of dental professionals. Membership is open for all spouses regardless of sex. ANDA also raises scholarship funds and awards yearly scholarship(s) to deserving dental students. This is done at the NDA Convention and through individual donations.
Join us in advancing oral health equity for communities of color. Together, the NDA Family of Organizations creates a powerful network of support, education, and advocacy for dental professionals at every stage of their career.