Dr. Joseph L. Henry Freshman/First Year Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by National Dental Association Foundation

About the scholarship
The Dr. Joseph L. Henry Scholarship commemorates the life and work of Dr. Joseph L. Henry (May 2, 1924 – October 11, 2011), a distinguished figure in dental education who led both Howard University College of Dentistry and Harvard School of Dental Medicine. A consistent valedictorian throughout his studies, Dr. Henry completed his undergraduate degree at Xavier University, earned his dental degree from Howard University, and obtained a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois — all by age 26. For more on his career and contributions, please consult available online resources.

Award overview
Each year up to five incoming first-year dental students will be selected to receive this honor. Awardees are granted $2,000 per year, renewable for as long as four years. Renewal is contingent on submission of an annual renewal application and continued demonstration of strong academic performance and leadership in student activities.

Who is eligible
- Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Must have been admitted to a U.S. dental school accredited by ADA/CODA.
- Must hold an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Must show commitment to community service and the principles of respect and selflessness.

Recipients will also be required, within 30 days of award notification, to provide a short quotation and a 30-second video expressing their appreciation. These materials may be published on the NDAF website and in other promotional materials.

Application checklist
Applicants must provide the following items:

- Official undergraduate transcript from your college or university.
- A professional headshot.
- A personal statement (up to 500 words) requesting consideration — addressing financial need, academic accomplishments, community service, and the personal qualities and experiences that qualify you for this scholarship.
- A letter from the SNDA national or local president confirming your current membership status.
- Letter of acceptance from the U.S. dental school (ADA/CODA-accredited) to which you were admitted.
- A completed Photo and Video Release Form.

Letters of recommendation
Three recommendation letters are required and must come from the following sources:

1. The Dean or Chair of your undergraduate degree program.
2. An undergraduate professor.
3. A third referee of your choosing (not one of the two above).

Notes: Recommendations written by family members, relatives, or students are not acceptable.

Submission and use of materials
All requested documentation must be submitted as part of your application. If selected, awardees must submit the requested quotation and 30‑second video within 30 days of notification for possible use on the NDAF website and in other publications.