Beyond financial aid and research initiatives, the NDAF-Colgate-Palmolive Partnership a extends its impact through robust support for career pathways, professional development, and leadership programs. By fostering strategic collaborations and offering targeted grant opportunities, the partnership invests in initiatives that empower students and dental faculty to achieve their full potential and make lasting contributions to the field of oral health.
A key focus of the partnership is strengthening the pipeline of African Americans in the oral health professions. By supporting transformative career pathway programs for precollege, college, and postbaccalaureate students from historically marginalized communities, the partnership seeks to inspire, prepare, and equip aspiring individuals to succeed in dentistry and other related oral health fields. Importantly, these initiatives address systemic inequities and barrier and create opportunities for aspiring individuals to thrive as future professionals and leaders in oral health care.
Introduction to Diversity in Dentistry (IDID) Program
The IDID Program is a comprehensive initiative designed to increase awareness, interest, and representation of underrepresented groups in the field of dentistry. By offering hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, academic enrichment, and exposure to dental career opportunities, the program empowers participants to confidently pursue their aspirations in oral health professions. IDID serves as a critical bridge for students, ensuring they have the knowledge, skills, and support necessary to succeed in their educational and professional journeys.
The partnership emphasizes professional development and leadership by supporting career development and enrichment activities for minority faculty and mentorship programs for students involved in the Student National Dental Association (SNDA), Undergraduate SNDA (USNDA), National Dental Hygienists’ Association (NDHA), and National Dental Assistants’ Association (NDAA). These initiatives support leadership development, encouraging students and faculty alike to excel academically and professionally while fostering a deep commitment to service within the profession and their communities. Programs supported include student mentorship and professional enrichment activities designed to build confidence, foster professional skills, and inspire leadership.
Funded Initiatives include:
NDA Minority Faculty Forum
The NDA Minority Faculty Forum is a vital platform designed to support and uplift minority dental faculty by addressing unique challenges they face in academia. Through networking opportunities, professional development workshops, and access to mentorship, the forum empowers faculty members to excel in their teaching, research, and leadership roles. The program fosters a supportive community, encouraging collaboration and innovation to advance diversity and inclusion in dental education.- NDA Dr. Eddie G. Smith Leadership Development Program
The Dr. Eddie G. Smith Leadership Development Program honors the legacy of a trailblazer in dentistry by cultivating the next generation of leaders in the oral health profession. This program equips participants with essential leadership skills, mentorship, and opportunities to engage in service-oriented projects. Designed for both students and professionals, the program fosters a deep commitment to excellence, advocacy, and community impact, ensuring participants are well-prepared to lead in their respective fields.
Through initiatives like IDID, the NDA Minority Faculty Forum, and the Dr. Eddie G. Smith Leadership Development Program, the NDAF-Colgate-Palmolive Partnership demonstrates its unwavering commitment to building an inclusive, diverse, and forward-thinking oral health workforce.