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Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine’s (SIU SDM) Lexi Nash is the recipient of a $6,000 scholarship from the Illinois State Dental Society (ISDS) Foundation. Nash, of Lebanon, is one of three students statewide to receive the monetary award as they embark on their final year toward completion of a doctorate of dental medicine (DMD).

Applicants were asked to share how their dental degree will affect the lives of others. Nash replied, “I am completely enthralled by the endless opportunities I’ll have to incorporate community service into my everyday life as a dentist. Throughout my career, it is my goal to lead through example and show others that service, whether through big or small efforts, has a lasting, positive impact on society.”

“The expenses for my degree and living allowance are completely funded through student loans, other than the small amount I am able to earn through tutoring in dental school,” Nash added upon receiving the scholarship. “I am incredibly grateful to receive financial help through this scholarship.”

Nash recently applied for a pediatric dental residency, where she intends to focus her work on caring for children’s dental needs.

“I am deeply committed to caring for others and enjoy interacting with and teaching people,” Nash explained. “Dentistry offers many opportunities to learn, connect with others, and make a positive impact in my community.”

The fourth-year student is highly involved in the SIU SDM’s research, community service and extracurricular activities, including serving as president of the SIU SDM’s chapter of the American Student Dental Association, participating in National Children’s Dental Health Month, and engaging area children during the annual Give Kid’s a Smile Day event.

In her essay submission, Nash elaborated on her plans to make a difference in others’ lives through grassroots advocacy efforts with both local and state dental societies.

“As our school’s chapter president of the American Student Dental Association, I’m honored to have represented my class at conferences, and advocated in Washington D.C. for both our patients and profession,” Nash wrote. “I’m most grateful to serve as a liaison while speaking about issues affecting our patients. These experiences have demonstrated the incredible value of organized dentistry, and inspired me to continue to use my voice and abilities for good.” 

The SIU School of Dental Medicine students manage approximately 35,000 patient visits each year at its patient clinics in Alton and East St. Louis. In addition, students offer oral health treatment, screenings and education to more than 10,000 people annually through a wide variety of off-campus community outreach events. These opportunities provide students the training they need to graduate and become highly skilled dentists. The School of Dental Medicine is a vital oral health care provider for residents of southern and central Illinois, and the St. Louis metropolitan region.

Photo: (L-R) SIU SDM Dean Bruce Rotter, DMD, ISDS Foundation scholarship recipient Lexi Nash, and Keith Dickey, DMD, SIU SDM Director of Alumni Services and Continuing Education.