Western University of Health Sciences’ College of Dental Medicine (CDM) recently awarded the Delta Dental Endowed Scholarship for Opportunity to four of its students. The recipients are Derica Burwell, DMD Class of 2025; 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 Dr. Elizabeth Andrews, Dean of the College of Dental Medicine. “Our college is honored to support the Foundation’s mission to educate and train the next generation of oral health care providers.”
The scholarship program began after CDM received a $1 million grant from the Delta Dental Community Care Foundation, the charitable arm of Delta Dental of California and its affiliates.
Each year, the scholarship is awarded to at least two CDM students who demonstrate strong academic performance while overcoming financial hardship or adversity. Preference is given to students interested in serving underserved communities.
Derica Burwell, DMD ’25, described the award as a significant honor that reinforces her commitment to dentistry. “This scholarship is more than financial relief. It validates the purpose behind my education and the future I want to build,” Burwell said. “It strengthens my resolve to work in communities with limited dental care. It reminds me that my community believes in my vision and supports me.”
Kendall Rollin, DMD Class of 2026, said, “I am truly honored to receive the Delta Dental Scholarship. As a student with significant educational debt, this support will help me pursue my dream of becoming an orthodontist and advocate for my community.” Rollin added that the recognition inspires her and hopes the scholarship will continue to help future students committed to making an impact.
Edward Hernandez, DMD Class of 2027, said the award represents more than money. “It recognizes the commitment many of us have made to serve underserved areas and to overcome challenges,” Hernandez said. “Scholarships like this ease the financial burden and empower students to focus on their passion for service. WesternU is shaping future dentists who will work to reduce gaps in oral health care.”
Danielle Fitzgerald, DMD Class of 2028, shared similar feelings. “This scholarship means much more than financial support. It shows that my goals and values are shared by the CDM and WesternU community,” Fitzgerald said. “With this support, I feel even more motivated to use my education to help close the gap in oral health care access. No one should be left behind because of where they come from or what they can afford.”
Kenzie Ferguson, Vice President of Foundation and Corporate Social Responsibility at Delta Dental, emphasized the importance of the partnership. “At Delta Dental of California and affiliates, we are committed to improving health by increasing access to quality care,” Ferguson said. “Supporting students at WesternU College of Dental Medicine is an investment in the next generation of dentists who will continue this work. Oral health is key to overall health. By empowering dental professionals to serve those in need, we are closing critical gaps in care. This partnership is about building a healthier future, and we are proud to work with WesternU to make a lasting impact in our communities and beyond.”
