Anna Franek, MSDH ’25, recognized with SHIP Award for excellence in Dental Hygiene
The American Academy of Dental Hygiene (AADH) recognizes outstanding graduate dental hygiene students through one of the organization’s most prestigious honors, the SHIP Award. It’s given to those who’ve excelled in leadership, fellowship, mentorship and scholarship, which are the core values of the academy.
MSDH ‘25 student Anna Franek was recognized with a SHIP award this year. She was nominated by Yvette Reibel, EdD, LDH, MSDH program director. Also as part of the process, Franek wrote an essay and submitted an application to AADH. The award includes a two-year AADH membership and attendance at the annual meeting during the Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) Under One Roof conference, which was held this year in Dallas, Texas.
“I felt very honored to receive this prestigious award,” Franek said. “It represents a significant step forward in achieving my goals.” Even though she just graduated this May, she already has clear future career plans. “I want to expand further into dental hygiene education through leadership and mentorship of future dental hygienists,” she said. “As an educator, my goal is to help students enhance patient care and contribute to our profession. I aspire to demonstrate accountability and honesty in my teaching, and I hope to inspire new professionals who care about preventive dentistry and patient-centered care. I also hope to improve my skills through professional development and research to support dental hygiene education.”
“As a student, I have not only deepened my knowledge, but also strengthened my passion for this profession, particularly realizing that leadership does not always come with a title. Ultimately, I aim to collaborate with other dental hygienists and healthcare professionals to drive positive change in our field,” she said.
When Franek began considering an advanced degree, all roads eventually led to the University.. “I reached out to colleagues and former educators for advice and insights on entering dental education, and their encouragement and guidance led me to the University of Minnesota's MSDH program and a part-time position in the dental hygiene program at Minnesota State University, Mankato. This program has helped me work through the fear of stepping out of my comfort zone, pushing myself and giving my best effort.”
Franek is impressed by the role AADH has already played in her life. As the organization has stated, “Through initiatives like the SHIP Award, the AADH promotes individual professional growth by encouraging leadership, mentorship, and fellowship among dental hygienists. As the field of dental hygiene continues to evolve, the SHIP Award serves as a beacon, guiding professionals toward a future marked by continued growth, collaboration, and dedication to the highest standards of care.”