One $10,000 Post-Doctoral Fellowship Award Annually

Applications open March 1 and closes midnight May 31

The Dr. Clifton & Lois Dummett Fellowship honors Dr. Clifton O. Dummett (1919–2011), a distinguished educator, researcher, and advocate for social justice, and his wife, Lois Doyle Dummett, a historian and co-author. Dr. Dummett, Distinguished Professor Emeritus at USC, earned his DDS from Northwestern University in 1941 and later completed master’s degrees in periodontics and public health.

At age 28, he became the youngest dental school dean in the U.S. at Meharry Medical College. A champion for equality, his efforts in the ADA led to the elimination of restrictive membership policies. He also served as Editor-in-Chief of the NDA for 22 years. Together, the Dummett’s co-authored NDA II: The Story of America’s Second National Dental Association.

– READ MORE ABOUT DR. CLIFTON O. DUMMETT –

This fellowship honors their legacy of advancing equity, scholarship, and humanitarianism in dentistry. It is awarded to individuals pursuing advanced clinical training in the dental specialties or advanced studies in research, public health, administration, or law, with a demonstrated commitment to social justice and improving the oral health of systematically under-resourced communities.

Eligibility Requirements & Criteria

• Must be a U.S. citizen or have permanent resident status
• Must be post-doctoral candidate pursuing advanced degree in a dental clinical specialty, research, public health, administration, or law.  
• Must be a current member of the National Dental Association (NDA)
• Evidence of a commitment to improving the oral health of systematically under-resourced communities.  
• Awardee must submit a quotation and 30-second video expressing appreciation for the fellowship award within 30 days of notification. This content may be used on the NDAF website and other publications.

Application Requirements

Applicants must provide the following:

• Official dental school transcript
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Professional photo
• A letter of request for consideration that describes how the funds will be used and describes the program you are entering.  
• Written narrative (up to 500 words) detailing your professional aspirations, notable academic achievements, and why you believe you deserve this fellowship award.
• A letter of nomination from your Program Director
• The total cost of post-graduate program and stipend amount you will receive, if applicable
• Two letters of recommendation
  • One of which must come from one of your current professors other than your Program Director
  • Letters from family members, relatives, or students are not accepted
• Completed Photo and Video Release Form.