Tareina Rogers
“I am deeply honored to receive the Audacity to Dream Leadership Scholarship from the National Dental Association Foundation. This support has been instrumental in overcoming the financial barriers faced by many dental students and has renewed my belief in the power of representation and hope. To those who look like me, know that there is someone rooting for you, and your dreams are possible.”
The Audacity to Dream Leadership Scholarship is a prestigious annual award that celebrates dental students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, visionary leadership, and a commitment to advancing diversity and equity in oral health. This scholarship honors individuals who not only excel in their studies but also make significant contributions to their local Student National Dental Association (SNDA) chapters or the national organization.
Award recipients are leaders who actively engage in efforts to promote inclusivity, mentorship, and oral health equity. Whether organizing impactful community service projects, spearheading educational initiatives, or mentoring peers, these students exemplify the values of service, advocacy, and excellence. Their dedication inspires others and contributes to fostering a more diverse and equitable oral health workforce.
Applicants must demonstrate a proven history of meaningful contributions to their SNDA chapter or broader community, highlighting initiatives that have created a lasting impact. This scholarship recognizes and supports future leaders who embody the courage to dream, lead, and make transformative change.
Application opens March 1 and closes midnight May 31
Eligibility Requirements and Criteria
- Must be a U.S. citizen or have permanent resident status.
- Must be enrolled in a U.S. dental school accredited by ADA/CODA and have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Must be an active SNDA member with proper documentation (local or national).
- SNDA membership must remain in good standing throughout the review process and the awarding academic year.
- Must attend the SNDA Rights of Passage Gala the year of your application.
- Scholarship awardees must submit a quotation and a 30-second video expressing their appreciation within 30 days of notification. This content may be used on the NDAF website and other publications
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following:
- Official dental school transcript
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Professional photo
- A letter of request for consideration summarizing academic awards and recognitions and the leadership positions you have held within your school, local SNDA chapter, and national SNDA.
- A narrative of no more than 1000 words describing your leadership experiences, including your leadership roles within the SNDA and how has your efforts contributed to the success of your chapter or region. This narrative should also describe how your leadership skills can help strengthen the SNDA to NDA pipeline and how you plan to support your dental school as a practicing dentist. Please also describe how your character and leadership reflect one or more of the following traits; courage, humanity, justice, temperament, wisdom or transcendence.
- A “Leadership Reflection” essay of no more than 500 words, outlining your perspective on what it means to be a leader, specifically in alignment with the National Dental Association Foundation’s mission and core values.
- A letter from SNDA national or local president stating your current membership status.
- Two recommendation letters
- One letter must be from a dental school faculty member or SNDA advisor.
- Recommendations from family members, relatives, and students are not accepted
- Completed Photo and Video Release Form