The Audacity to Dream Leadership Scholarship

About this program

The National Dental Association Foundation awards the annual Audacity to Dream Leadership Scholarship, a $10,000 prize recognizing U.S. dental students for exceptional academic achievement, visionary leadership, and commitment to diversity and equity in oral health. Recipients are expected to have made significant, lasting contributions to their local SNDA chapters or the national organization through community service, education, mentorship, and efforts that promote inclusivity and oral health equity. Eligible applicants must be 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 be active SNDA members in good standing who attend the SNDA Rights of Passage Gala in the application year. Required materials include an official transcript, CV, professional photo, letter of request summarizing awards and leadership roles, a ≤1000‑word leadership narrative, a ≤500‑word Leadership Reflection, a letter from SNDA national or local president confirming membership, two recommendation letters (one from a dental school faculty member or SNDA advisor), and a completed Photo and Video Release Form; awardees must supply a quotation and a 30‑second appreciation video within 30 days of notification.