Delta Dental of Massachusetts Establishes Community College Scholarships for Students of Color
2021 annual giving supports students of color studying dental hygiene and health sciences at Quinsigamond, Roxbury and Springfield Tech community colleges, plus 50 local organizations.
BOSTON – April 4, 2022 – Delta Dental of Massachusetts today shared its 2021 charitable contributions, which focus on increasing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in dentistry and creating greater opportunities for students of color to enter the dental profession. As part of this effort, Delta Dental committed $17,500 in scholarships for students of color in the dental hygiene programs at Quinsigamond Community College and Springfield Tech Community College and the Roxbury Community Colleges health science program, in addition to supporting more than 50 community-based organizations across the state.
“As a mission-driven organization, we’re committed to making strong investments in our community,” said Dennis Leonard, president and CEO of Delta Dental of Massachusetts. “Delta Dental is proud to support these scholarship programs for students of color and to help create pathways for the future dental workforce to become more inclusive and reflective of all Massachusetts communities — because we know it is critical to our mission of improving the oral health of all.”
In addition to establishing the scholarship programs at three local community colleges, Delta Dental of Massachusetts contributions in 2021 supported health equity and DEI through the Latino Equity Fund, the Dimock Center, the Commonwealth Institute’s women’s leadership development program, and dozens of community-based organizations across the Commonwealth — from local food banks to child care and after school programs.
Delta Dental of Massachusetts charitable donations, sponsorships, volunteerism and advocacy support the following categories:
– Cultivating Health-Smart Future Leaders: Organizations that foster engaged, health-literate young people who will one day be the leaders of their neighborhoods, towns, cities and state
– Supporting Families: Groups helping families stay strong and healthy in the face of life challenges
– Hospitals and Community Health Centers: Places that serve as a trusted “home” for dental, medical and behavioral care — these homes are essential to health and wellbeing;
– Diversity, Equity, Inclusion: Organizations designed to strengthen communities, to promote economic justice and to foster inclusion
– Business Leadership: State and regional associations that create opportunities for leadership development and connect leaders across the Commonwealth and region.
Donations made last year totaling $170,010 were distributed to over 50 local organizations.
Find more information on Delta Dental of Massachusetts’ corporate citizenship here.
About Delta Dental of Massachusetts
Delta Dental of Massachusetts (www.deltadentalma.com), the largest provider of dental benefits in the state, is a leader in innovative programs that improve the overall health of members, prevent oral disease and reduce health care costs for employers, groups and individuals. Headquartered in Charlestown, Mass., Delta Dental of Massachusetts, a member of the Delta Dental Plans Association (www.deltadental.com), covers more than 2 million people. Follow us on Twitter (@DeltaDentalofMA), Facebook (www.facebook.com/DeltaDentalMA), and Instagram (@deltadentalofma).