Dr. Robert Tanner Freeman Dental School Scholarship

People working in a lab setting.

The DTA Foundation announced in 2023 a new scholarship initiative, in partnership with the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). The Dr. Robert Tanner Freeman Scholarship will provide scholarships to underrepresented minorities looking to start their dental education. This dental scholarship is the first of its kind established through UNCF and is focused on fostering diversity and enhancing accessibility within the oral healthcare profession.

Big thanks are owed to our Founding Anchor Sponsor, Patterson Dental, and Founding Partners, Benco Family Foundation and 3M for making this initiative possible. Their leadership and generosity will greatly benefit oral health and the dental industry for years to come.

Thank You UNCF

The United Negro College Fund has helped more than 500,000 students earn their college degrees since its founding and the DTA Foundation is proud to partner with them in developing the first ever dental student scholarship. This partnership aims to increase diversity in the dental field and provide improved access to higher education.

“Diversity in many professions across the United States is severely lacking and often doesn’t represent our population’s needs,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO, UNCF. “This is why this new scholarship program is vital—literally—to the health of our nation. We appreciate the gift from the DTA Foundation and look forward to expanding this partnership.”

Help Support!

Still in the early stages of development, the Dr. Robert Tanner Freeman Scholarship aims to make a lasting difference for historically underrepresented minorities within the dental field. However, to maximize its impact, further support is essential. Your contribution will not only amplify the scholarship’s reach but also greatly determine the opportunities we can provide.

If you are interested in supporting this new scholarship, please contact Sarah Miller, Executive Director, at sarahmiller@dentaltradealliance.org or (703) 379-7755.