WesternU College of Dental Medicine awards Delta Dental Community Care Foundation scholarships
Western University of Health Sciences’ College of Dental Medicine (CDM) recently awarded four students with the Delta Dental Endowed Scholarship for Opportunity.
The recipients are Derica Burwell, DMD ’25, Kendall Rollin, DMD Class of 2026, Edward Hernandez, DMD Class of 2027, and Danielle Fitzgerald, DMD Class of 2028.
“We are extremely grateful to the Delta Dental Community Care Foundation for their continued support of WesternU CDM,” said WesternU College of Dental Medicine Dean Elizabeth Andrews, DDS, MS. “WesternU CDM is honored and supports the Community Care Foundation’s mission to educate and train the next generation of oral health care providers.”
CDM received a $1 million grant from the Delta Dental Community Care Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Delta Dental of California and affiliates, to launch the Delta Dental Endowed Scholarships for Opportunity program.
The annual scholarship is awarded to a minimum of two CDM students who have demonstrated high academic achievement while having experienced financial hardship and overcome adversity or difficult circumstances. Preference will be given to students who have demonstrated interest in working in underserved communities.
CDM graduate Derica Burwell, DMD ’25, said receiving this award is an incredible honor, and it deeply reaffirms her commitment to the path she has chosen.
“It means more than just financial relief; it validates the purpose behind my education and the future I hope to build,” Burwell said. “This scholarship not only lightens the financial load but also strengthens my resolve to work in underserved communities, where dental care is often limited. It’s a powerful reminder that the community I’m part of believes in my vision and is helping me bring it to life.”
“I am truly honored to receive the Delta Dental Scholarship. As a dental student facing significant educational debt, this support will help me pursue my dream of becoming an orthodontist and serving as an advocate for my community within the profession,” said CDM student Kendall Rollin. “Students from all backgrounds and circumstances are doing inspiring work, and it was incredibly humbling to be recognized for my contributions toward advancing both my community and the dental field. I hope this scholarship continues to support future students who are passionate about making a meaningful impact.”
This award represents more than just financial assistance, it is a recognition of the commitment many students like myself have made to serve underserved communities and to overcome challenges along the way, said CDM student Edward Hernandez.
“Receiving this scholarship reaffirms my dedication to providing care in areas where health care access is limited,” Hernandez said. “Scholarships like this are crucial because they not only ease the financial burden of dental education but also empower students to stay focused on their passion for service. WesternU is helping shape the next generation of dentists who will work to close the gaps in oral health care by investing in students who are committed to making a difference.”
“Receiving this scholarship means so much more than financial support, it’s a reminder that my goals and values are recognized and shared by the CDM and WesternU community,” said CDM student Danielle Fitzgerald. “With this kind of backing, I feel even more driven to use my education to help close the gap in oral health care access and ensure that no one is left behind simply because of where they come from or what they can afford.”
“At Delta Dental of California and affiliates, we’re committed to our purpose of improving health by providing access to quality care. Supporting the students at WesternU College of Dental Medicine through the Delta Dental Community Care Foundation isn’t just about helping people get the care they need today — it’s about investing in the next generation of dentists who will carry this work forward,” said Kenzie Ferguson, vice president of foundation and corporate social responsibility for Delta Dental. “Oral health is the gateway to overall health, and by empowering both current and future dental professionals to serve those most in need, we’re bridging critical gaps in care. This is about more than treatment — it’s about building a healthier future. We are proud to stand with WesternU College of Dental Medicine to make a lasting impact in our communities and beyond.”
