Midwestern University, in partnership with the Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation, has announced the recipients of the Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation Admissions Scholarship. The award recognizes outstanding dental students who demonstrate a strong commitment to service and clinical excellence.
This year, five first-year students—Lindsay Chin, Valeria Garcia, Christian Luna, Janice Ordaz, and Cynthia Theodore—were selected to receive the scholarship to attend Midwestern University’s College of Dental Medicine-Illinois (CDMI). Selection criteria include academic achievement, leadership skills, research involvement, and dedication to caring for underserved communities. First-generation college students and those with financial need are given additional consideration.
“These scholarship recipients embody our mission of clinical excellence and community service,” said a university spokesperson. “They bring diverse experiences, strong academic backgrounds, and a shared passion for helping others.”
Scholarship Recipients
Lindsay Chin (CDMI ’29), originally from the Mississippi Gulf Coast and now based in Dallas, Texas, holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of North Texas and a master’s in medical sciences from the UNT Health Science Center. After eight years as a dental hygienist, Chin decided to pursue a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. “I enjoyed being a dental hygienist, but I realized I wanted to become a dentist,” she said. “I chose CDMI for its unmatched clinical experience that will help shape me into an exceptional dentist.”
Valeria Garcia (CDMI ’29), born in Venezuela and raised in the United States from age three, earned a bachelor’s degree in natural and applied sciences from Florida International University and a master’s in biomedical sciences from Barry University. Her passion for dentistry began while working as a dental assistant. “I felt this was a place where I could grow both professionally and personally,” Garcia said. “The welcoming and supportive environment instantly made me feel at home.”
Christian Luna (CDMI ’29) grew up in Chicago’s south suburbs and holds a biology degree from the University of Illinois Chicago. With more than a decade of experience as a dental assistant, Luna’s interest in dentistry deepened through mentorship and hands-on learning. “Receiving the Delta Dental scholarship will help me reach my long-term goals faster,” he said. “I’m incredibly grateful.”
Janice Ordaz (CDMI ’29), originally from Los Angeles and later from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, graduated cum laude with a biology degree from Florida Atlantic University. Her interest in dentistry was inspired by a positive childhood dental visit. “This scholarship will ease the financial burden and empower me to perform my very best at CDMI,” she said.
Cynthia Theodore (CDMI ’29), from Queens, New York, earned a biology degree from SUNY Old Westbury. She is committed to serving underserved communities and emphasizes the role of dental care in improving confidence and quality of life. “This scholarship allows me to focus fully on becoming the provider I aspire to be,” Theodore said.
The five recipients will begin their studies in fall 2025 at CDMI’s Downers Grove campus. They are expected to graduate in 2029 after completing four years of rigorous coursework, hands-on simulations, clinical training, and community-based rotations.
Midwestern University’s CDMI program prepares students for careers in oral healthcare with a curriculum that emphasizes clinical excellence and patient-centered care. The partnership with Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation reflects a shared mission to improve health and well-being across the state.
