TSC Celebrates 50 Years of Dental Programs with New Awards and Partnership

September 16, 2025

Tallahassee State College (TSC) marked the 50th anniversary of its dental programs with the launch of three major initiatives that honor its legacy while preparing for the future of oral healthcare.

Heroes in Healthcare: The Golden Mirror Awards
The TSC Foundation introduced the new Heroes in Healthcare awards program, designed to spotlight different healthcare disciplines each year. The inaugural edition, The Golden Mirror Awards, will highlight dental education and honor alumni, faculty, students, and community partners who exemplify excellence in clinical practice, mentorship, community service, and professional growth.

The Golden Mirror Awards will feature four categories:

• Clinical Excellence Award - honoring dental offices that have provided outstanding clinical training and mentorship to TSC dental hygiene students.
• Community Impact Award - recognizing a dental hygienist who demonstrates leadership in expanding access to oral health through volunteerism, public health initiatives, or advocacy.
• Rising Star Award - celebrating a new dental hygiene professional (within the first five years of practice) who shows exceptional promise, dedication, and leadership potential.
• Mentor of the Year Award - honoring a dental hygienist who has made a lasting impact by guiding and inspiring new professionals and students.

"The Golden Mirror Awards allow us to shine a light on the extraordinary people and partners who have built the foundation of our programs and continue to shape the future of dental hygiene in our community," said Sheila Monk, TSC alumna and chair of the 50th anniversary.

Restorative Function Dental Auxiliary Certification Program
In partnership with the Florida Dental Association (FDA), TSC announced the launch of the Restorative Function Dental Auxiliary (RFDA) Certification Program, which will provide specialized training for dental assistants and dental hygienists that meets Florida Board of Dentistry standards. The program combines online curriculum with in-person clinical training, allowing dental professionals to expand their skills in restorative procedures such as cavity preparation, adhesive restorations, and stainless-steel crown placement.

"This partnership reflects our shared commitment to strengthening Florida's dental workforce and advancing oral healthcare," said Drew Eason, Executive Director of the Florida Dental Association. "Together, we are opening new pathways for professional growth while ensuring patients receive the highest quality care."

Set to begin on October 31, 2025, the RFDA program is open to dental assistants, hygienists, and dentists who wish to expand their team's scope of care. Interested professionals can contact [email protected]or join the FDA's notification list.

TSC Named ADEX Testing Site for Dental Hygiene Licensure Exam
Rounding out the day's announcements, TSC also shared that its Dental Hygiene Program has been designated as an official American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) testing site for the dental hygiene licensure exam. As an ADEX site, TSC will offer candidates the opportunity to complete both the clinical and computer-based components of the exam in a familiar, state-of-the-art environment.

This designation enhances access for TSC students while also benefiting candidates from across the Panhandle and surrounding regions who previously had to travel long distances to take the exam. Currently, ADEX testing sites are concentrated in central and south Florida, making TSC the only site located in the Florida Panhandle.

"This designation ensures our students, and those from across the region, have the resources and opportunities they need to transition smoothly into their careers," said Dr. Calandra Stringer, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at TSC. "It reflects our commitment to expanding access, reducing barriers, and preparing highly skilled professionals to meet the oral healthcare needs of our community."