The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA®) and the Delta Dental Foundation of Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana (DDF) have announced the official launch of “Hygienist Inspired,” a chairside recruitment program designed to increase diversity and address workforce shortages in the dental hygiene profession, as well as improve access to oral health care.
The program is launching in nine pilot states: Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin, with plans for nationwide expansion over the next two years. The Foundations of Delta Dental in each pilot state are funding program ambassadors to lead recruiting in their states, following an ambassador training event, held recently, led in partnership by representatives from ADHA and the DDF.
“Hygienist Inspired is founded on a simple yet profound belief — that dental hygienists are the strongest advocates for shaping the future of our profession and inspiring the next generation of professionals,” said Erin Haley-Hitz, ADHA president. “By harnessing the passion and influence of hygienists, this program not only sparks interest in a rewarding career but also encourages a more diverse and inclusive workforce that truly reflects the communities we serve.”
The newly trained Hygienist Inspired Ambassadors will lead outreach efforts in their respective states, conducting both chairside recruitment in their operatories and participating in community events to raise awareness about careers in dental hygiene. Equipped with professionally designed recruitment materials that highlight career benefits — including flexible scheduling options and diverse practice settings — ambassadors can effectively communicate the rewards of joining the profession.
“When we spoke with hygienists from traditionally underrepresented communities about how they chose their careers, we heard time and again that they were recruited chairside by their own hygienist,” said Dr. Holli Seabury, executive director of the DDF. “A personal invitation holds tremendous power and connection. While this program also directly addresses workforce growth, our primary goal is to increase diversity in the profession and improve access to care in underserved communities. People are more likely to pursue careers where they see themselves represented, which is why this approach of connecting diverse candidates with hygienists they can identify with is so important for both the profession and the communities we serve.”
The program also introduces the role of “Hygienist Inspired Allies” — anyone who supports the mission to increase diversity in the profession and improve access to care. Allies pledge to promote dental hygiene careers by sharing program resources, advocating for the profession’s impact on oral health, and mentoring future hygienists. Allies can participate without the additional commitments required of Ambassadors, making it accessible for anyone to be a part of the program and contribute to the mission.
“The Hygienist Inspired Ambassadors will serve as local leaders, not only recruiting directly but also encouraging other hygienists to become part of the campaign as Allies,” said Seabury. “The Ally role is open to everyone, creating a grassroots movement that multiplies our impact.”
Key features of the Hygienist Inspired program include the following:
- A clear pathway for interested individuals to explore the dental hygiene profession through the ADHA website.
- The RDH Ready Checklist, providing step-by-step guidance for those considering a dental hygiene career.
- Connection to dental hygiene education programs, scholarship opportunities and mentorship.
- Resources highlighting the diverse career paths in dental hygiene.
- Multi-language materials tailored to diverse audiences.
More information about the Hygienist Inspired program is available online, at www.adha.org/hygienistinspired.
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