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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For additional information, contact:
Ashley Quackenbush, MPH, CHES
Senior Director, Education & Marketing
(404) 789-3155
[email protected]
February 3, 2026 (ATLANTA, GA) – Now in its third year, the Association for Dental Safety (ADS), the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), and the DALE Foundation are accepting applications for the 2026 ADS–DANB–DALE Foundation Andrew Whitehead Education & Certification Scholarship, advancing dental infection prevention and control across the profession.
Built on the belief that every dental professional shapes a safe, high‑quality visit, the scholarship is named in honor of Andrew "Andy" Whitehead's impact on the field and removes financial barriers to education and certification in infection prevention and control.
The scholarship is open to all dental professionals with at least 1,040 hours of work experience. Applicants have two options:
- Category 1: Education
- Category 2: Education and Certification
*Valid for individuals who are not already ADS members.
The CDIPC certification is for individuals who practice clinically or manage, train, educate, or consult individuals who practice clinically, and the DISIPC certification is for dental professionals who do not work in clinical settings, such as dental sales representatives.
By supporting education and certification, ADS, DANB, and the DALE Foundation strive to support those working in dentistry to ensure the ongoing safety and well-being of both patients and practitioners.
Applications are accepted through February 27, and recipients will be announced in May 2026.
About Andrew Whitehead
Andrew “Andy” Whitehead has over 50 years of extensive experience in the dental profession. As a founding member of the Association for Dental Safety (ADS), he currently holds the position of Chief Engagement & Relationship Officer. Throughout his remarkable career, Andy has taken on various leadership roles, including interim Executive Director, Chairman of the ADS Association, and Chairman of the ADS Foundation.
His executive background includes serving in key positions with industry giants Patterson Dental, Henry Schein, and Crosstex. Andy has also contributed his expertise to the American Dental Assistants Association and Dental Trade Alliance Foundation Boards.
In addition to his professional commitments, Andy is actively involved with the America’s Dentists Cares Foundation Board. Notably, he is recognized for his fundraising and auctioneer skills, having raised over $3 million for ADS and other nonprofits within the dental industry. Andy’s dedication and multifaceted contributions have left a lasting impact on the dental community.
About ADS
The Association for Dental Safety (ADS) — formerly known as OSAP— is the only nonprofit membership association for oral healthcare professionals that focuses exclusively on dental infection prevention and patient and provider safety. ADS helps operationalize dental infection control and safety laws, regulations, guidelines, standards, and best practices to ensure every dental visit is a safe visit.
About DANB
The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) is recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) as the national certification board for dental assistants. DANB’s mission is to promote the public good by providing credentialing services to the dental community.
About the DALE Foundation
The Dental Advancement through Learning and Education Foundation (the DALE Foundation) is the official DANB affiliate. The DALE Foundation’s mission is to benefit the public by providing quality education and conducting sound research to promote oral health.
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