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.”
$10,000 Merit Scholarship
One Award Annually
Applications Open: March 1
Application Deadline: May 31 (11:59 PM EST)
Scholarship Overview
The Dr. James E. Lassiter Audacity to Dream Leadership Award honors James E. Lassiter, Jr., DDS (1934–2025)—whose principled leadership and strategic vision helped shape the future of the National Dental Association (NDA) and the National Dental Association Foundation (NDAF). A distinguished private practitioner and devoted educator and mentor, he inspired students at the College of Dentistry in Newark and at Fairleigh Dickinson University.to become skilled, ethical, and service-driven practitioners
Dr. Lassiter served as President of the National Dental Association (1978–1979) and made history as the first President of the National Dental Association Foundation. Through his leadership and counsel to organizations such as the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and the Congressional Black Caucus Braintrust, he helped advance oral health policy and strengthen community health initiatives nationwide. Learn more about Dr. Lassiter 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.
This prestigious scholarship recognizes dental students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, academic achievement, and a strong commitment to advancing equity and mentorship within the profession. Ideal candidates show meaningful leadership within the Student National Dental Association (SNDA) or other professional organizations while contributing to initiatives that promote oral health equity, service, and professional development.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or have permanent resident status.
- Be currently enrolled in a U.S. dental school accredited by ADA/CODA
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Be an active member of the Student National Dental Association (SNDA) with documentation of membership at the local or national level
SNDA membership must remain in good standing throughout the review process and the award year.
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on demonstrated excellence in the following areas:
- Leadership and Professional Engagement
Meaningful leadership and active participation within SNDA or other professional organizations. - Academic Achievement
Strong academic performance and commitment to intellectual excellence. - Service and Community Impact
Demonstrated leadership in initiatives that advance oral health equity and community engagement.
Commitment to Mentorship and Professional Development
Active involvement in mentoring peers and strengthening the SNDA to NDA leadership pipeline.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following materials:
- Official dental school transcript
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Professional photograph
Letter of Request for Consideration (maximum 1000 words) describing:
- Academic achievements and recognitions
- Your philosophy of leadership and how it aligns with the mission of the NDAF
- Leadership experiences within dental school and SNDA (local and/or national)
- Professional commitment to supporting the SNDA and NDA, and advancing oral health equity
Letters of Recommendation (Two Required)
Letters of recommendation are an important component of the review process and will be carefully considered in the selection of award recipients.
Applicants must submit:
- One letter from the Dean or Department Chair addressing academic performance, and leadership potential
- One letter from the SNDA Faculty Advisor (or current faculty member if no advisor is available) highlighting leadership engagement and future potential
- One letter from a professional reference of the applicant’s choice
Letters from family members, relatives, or fellow students will not be accepted.
Video Submission
Applicants must submit a short video (up to 5 minutes) describing:
- Why they believe they are a strong candidate for the award
- How their leadership reflects the legacy of Dr. James E. Lassiter
Recipient Acknowledgment
- Scholarship recipients must submit a short quotation and a 30-second appreciation video within 30 days of notification.
- Completed Photo and Video Release Form
These materials may be used by the National Dental Association Foundation on its website, publications, and communications platforms.
