HANCEVILLE, Ala. – Wallace State Community College’s Dental Hygiene program celebrated the success of more than 25 students who completed the program and are ready to step into careers as dental hygienist.
“I’ve watched them come in and start out as new learners and now they are confident and competent individuals, and they are ready to go out and go out and conquer the world of dental hygiene,” said Hallie Melton, clinical coordinator.
Program Chair Dr. Susan Brewer outlined the impact the students have had during their five semesters in the program.
“You have seen almost 3,000 patients, including over 1,200 adults, 300 children, 400 adolescence, 350 seniors and 650 special needs patients,” Brewer said. “That’s the impact you as a group have had and we haven’t even let you out in the world yet. So just imagine the wonderful things that you will do once you’re licensed and out in the world. You’re going to have an amazing impact.”
“This group being celebrated today is an inspiring one that has made an impression on me and who I grew to love quickly,” said class president Candace Peppers. “I’ve enjoyed watching this group become confident in dental hygiene and in life. This group is ready to go and do the hard things and make a positive impact on the people that they treat.”
In her comments to the class, instructor Dr. Stephanie Eisner quoted Albert Schweitzer – “Success in not the key to happiness; happiness is the key to success. If you love what you’re doing, you will be successful.”
“And I want you to know that you make me feel like the most successful person on Earth,” Eisner said, “because I don’t know how anybody could be around all of you and not be happy.”
Several students were recognized during the pinning ceremony.
- Dental Program Award – Bryanna Mullins
- Dental Hygiene Club Award – Candace Peppers
- Irene Newman Award – Bryanna Mullins
- Douglas Allen Memorial Award – Cobe Gordon
- Jane Barber Memorial Award – Kayle Kassian
- Academic Excellence – Gabrielle Castellanos, Madilyn Edwards, Lilianna Sanchez, Fabiola Santacruz, Liza Wallace and Bonnie Blue Williams
- Hu-Friedy Golden Scaler – Breanna Houston
- Colgate Star Award – Kenethia Burns
- National Network of Healthcare Hygienists – Bonnie Blue Williams
The Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting programs are currently accepting applications for Fall 2026 admission through June 1. For more information, visit www.wallacestate.edu or call 256-352-3000. For information about all Wallace State Health Science programs, visit www.wallacestate.edu/health.
