The Nebraska Dental Hygienists' Association (NDHA) recognized the UNMC College of Dentistry as 'Employer of the Year' at their annual session on April 24. Criteria for the award includes creating and maintaining a supportive workplace for dental hygienists, displaying respect and recognition of the dental hygiene profession, and serving as a mentor, advocate or educator to dental hygienists.
Lisa Moravec, assistant professor and site coordinator for the UNMC West Division Dental Hygiene program, nominated the college for the award.
"Gwen Hlava, chair of the department of dental hygiene, is a mentor to all hygienists within the department. She has encouraged and supported faculty involvement within our professional associations," Lisa said. "Dean Janet Guthmiller has also been extremely supportive and knows the importance of service and leadership to the profession, especially during such a challenging and historical time. She has been a great mentor and leads by example, as she too is very involved in service to the profession."
"The department of dental hygiene is proud to have several faculty involved in leadership positions for the profession, including Heather Hessheimer, assistant professor, who served as the president of the NDHA and myself serving as president of the American Dental Hygienists' Association," Lisa said. "Without employer support, it would not be possible to serve in these positions as they require a large time commitment, schedule flexibility and support from the rest of the department, our students and the University as a whole."
Gwen Hllava (pictured on left) said, "We are proud to support our faculty members as they serve in leadership roles in professional organizations and are proud of the important work they do for our profession. We are honored to receive this award."
Dean Janet Guthmiller (pictured on right) said, "We are very proud of all our dental hygiene faculty, including Heather and Lisa, who lead and serve professional organizations. The college is pleased to encourage and support faculty involvement within professional associations. It's a great honor to receive this award."