The Audacity to Dream Community Service Award

About this program

The National Dental Association Foundation offers the Audacity to Dream Community Service Scholarship, a $10,000 annual award recognizing dental students who demonstrate sustained community service and leadership to improve oral health in under-resourced communities. It honors applicants who have developed or led health equity initiatives and who actively participate in their local Student National Dental Association (SNDA) chapter to advance diversity, mentorship, advocacy, and service. Eligible applicants are U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in an ADA/CODA‑accredited U.S. dental school with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and active SNDA membership in good standing; recipients must attend the SNDA Rights of Passage Gala in the year of application. Required materials include an official transcript, CV, professional photo, SNDA membership verification, two 500‑word narratives, a 2–5 minute video scrapbook, two letters of recommendation (one from faculty or an SNDA advisor), photo/video release, and awardees must submit a quotation and a 30‑second video within 30 days of notification.