STCC Class of 2024 Dental Assisting students honored at pinning ceremony

STCC celebrated Dental Assisting graduates during a Pinning Ceremony.

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College celebrated the Class of 2024 Dental Assisting graduates during a heartfelt pinning ceremony held on Jan. 7.

With friends and family seated in the Scibelli Hall auditorium to cheer them on, the event honored nine graduates for their resilience, hard work and passion for making a difference in the dental field.

Samantha Kelley, the Dental Assisting Program Coordinator, praised the graduates for their dedication.

Faculty join graduates of the Class of 2024 Dental Assisting program at STCC.

“Your journey has been characterized by resilience, dedication and unwavering passion for perfecting a craft that has positively influenced the lives of many,” she said.

Kelley emphasized the critical role dental assistants play in the profession. “The role of a dental assistant is one of the most vital in any dental office. You are the multitaskers, the problem solvers, the patient comforters. You are the glue that keeps the office running smoothly.”

STCC’s one-year dental assisting certificate program trains students to work as dental assistants, who prepare patients for procedures, from simple fillings to oral surgery. They assist the dentist with passing of instruments and performing suction, among other crucial tasks. They might do administrative work in the front of the office.

STCC President John B. Cook shared his pride in the graduates, noting the strong demand for dental assistants in the region.

Your journey has been characterized by resilience, dedication and unwavering passion for perfecting a craft that has positively influenced the lives of many. Samantha Kelley, Dental Assisting Program Coordinator

“I can tell you, if you don’t have multiple job offers, they’re waiting for you. This dental community is eagerly awaiting your graduation. Congratulations,” Cook said.

Christopher Scott, Dean of the School of Health and Patient Simulation, urged the graduates to continue striving for excellence in their careers and advised them to be lifelong learners.

“You worked hard. Be proud of what you've done. As you continue to grow in your role, give back. Don't be afraid to mentor the next group,” Scott remarked.

The ceremony featured honored guests, including Michael Knapik, chair of the Board of Trustees, and Dr. Michael Caban, president of the Valley District Dental Society, who joined the STCC community to celebrate the graduates’ achievements.

The following graduates were recognized during the ceremony:

  • Haley Rae Dumont of Springfield
  • Liliana Goncalves of Ludlow
  • Justine Guyer of Hampden
  • Ellyse Hepburn of Chester
  • Brianna Landry of Ludlow
  • Panda Lee of Springfield
  • Cristal P. Ramos of Springfield
  • Joshua Saez of Chicopee
  • Megan Vieira of South Hadley

Graduating students received awards including leadership and achievement awards from the Valley District Dental Society, which has provided scholarships and support for the STCC program.

The pinning ceremony served as a symbolic passage for the students, marking their transition from classroom instruction to professional practice.

Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu