Western University of Health Sciences’ College of Dental Medicine (CDM) received a $1 million gift from the Western Regional Examination Board (WREB) in 2021 to fund scholarships and carry on WREB’s legacy of helping students. The gift funds a perpetual endowment that will provide partial scholarships for two third-year and two fourth-year CDM students from one of nine pioneering WREB states.

CDM recently gave Western Regional Examination Board Legacy Endowed Scholarships to two graduates, Nema Alimian, DMD ’25, and Robert Salcido, DMD ’25, and two students, Gregory Bai and Justin James Donato.

“In partnership with the Western Regional Examination Board, we are proud to award the WREB Legacy Endowed Scholarships to four exceptional individuals,” said CDM Dean Elizabeth Andrews, DDS, MS. “These scholars embody the spirit of service, commitment, and clinical excellence that WREB has championed. Through them, the legacy of this profession lives on.” 

Dr. Nema Alimian said it is a great honor to be recognized by WesternU for this award.

“This award means a great deal to students as it reminds us to continue in the pursuit of excellence and service. This award is the embodiment of professionalism, humanism, and science – which are the core values of this institution,” Alimian said. “It is imperative for WesternU to continue to support their students as they are transitioning from didactics to clinical to workforce. I am greatly humbled for being recognized for this honor.”

Gregory Bai, DMD Class of 2026, said he is incredibly honored to receive the Western Regional Examination Board Legacy Endowed Scholarship.

“This recognition not only affirms the hard work and dedication I’ve invested in my education, but it also motivates me to continue striving for excellence in the dental field,” Bai said. “Scholarships like this are a powerful reminder that institutions like CDM and WesternU truly believe in their students’ potential. The support they provide goes far beyond financial—it’s an investment in our future, our goals, and the communities we will go on to serve.”

CDM student Justin James Donato, DMD Class of 2026, said this scholarship will provide critical support as he continues his pursuit towards obtaining his doctoral degree.

“Through this scholarship, I can continue to advance my professional development and clinical training. Looking ahead, I aspire to pursue a career in academic dentistry, where I can contribute to the education and mentorship of future dental professionals. I am passionate about equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and compassion necessary to provide excellent care and serve their communities with integrity,” Donato said. “Scholarships such as this are vital to the success of dental students. By alleviating financial barriers, they allow students to pursue their goals more freely and help cultivate a more diverse and well-prepared dental workforce. I commend the College of Dental Medicine and WesternU for their continued commitment to supporting students through such meaningful initiatives.”