$2,000 Awards – Five (5) Incoming First Year Renewable Scholarships
Applications open March 1 and closes midnight May 31
The Dr. Joseph L. Henry Scholarship honors the legacy of Dr. Joseph L. Henry (May 2, 1924 – October 11, 2011), an extraordinary leader in dentistry and education. Dr. Henry served as Dean of both Howard University College of Dentistry and Harvard School of Dental Medicine, leaving an indelible mark on both institutions. A valedictorian at every level of his studies, he earned his undergraduate degree at Xavier University, his dental degree at Howard University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois—all by the age of 26. To learn more about Dr. Joseph L. Henry’s extraordinary career and impact, click here.
The Dr. Joseph L. Henry Scholarship is awarded to up to five incoming first-year dental students who excel academically, participate in extra-curricular activities, and demonstrate exceptional academic and professional promise, embodying Dr. Henry’s values of excellence, determination, and leadership. Recipients receive a $2,000 renewable scholarship for up to four years, contingent upon submission of an annual application, and evidence of academic excellence and student leadership.
Telissa Reynolds,
2024 Joseph L. Henry Scholarship Award Recipient
Dr. Joseph L. Henry Scholarship Awardee
Eligibility Requirements and Criteria
- Must be a U.S. citizen or have permanent resident status.
- Must have received acceptance to a U.S. dental school accredited by ADA/CODA.
- Have an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater.
- Evidence community service, reflecting the ideals of respect and selflessness. Scholarship awardees must submit a quotation and 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 undergraduate college or university transcript
- Professional photo
- A letter of request for consideration (up to 500 words) outlining financial need, academic achievements, community service, and the personal qualities and experiences that make you eligible for the scholarship.
- A letter from SNDA national or local president stating your current membership status.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- One letter must from the Dean or Chair of your undergraduate degree program
- One letter from an undergraduate professor
- One letter from an individual of your choice (not listed above)
- Recommendations from family members, relatives, and students are not acceptable.
- Letter of acceptance from a U.S. dental school accredited by ADA/COD.
- A completed Photo and Video Release Form
Dr. Joseph L. Henry, for whom this scholarship is named, was an extraordinary leader in dentistry and education. He served as Dean of both the Howard University College of Dentistry and the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, leaving an indelible mark on both institutions. A valedictorian at each level of his studies, he earned his undergraduate degree from Xavier University, his dental degree from Howard University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois—all by the age of 26.
His rapid rise to prominence began at Howard, where he joined the faculty and was named Dean in 1966. Over the years, he was appointed to several White House Conferences, including those on Food, Nutrition, and Health; Employment of the Handicapped; and International Relations. A dedicated mentor, Dr. Henry inspired countless students with his philosophy to “make the best of it” and his call to “pull yourself together, focus, and apply your skills.”