Wayne Community College recognized its Dental Hygiene class of 2025 at a special pinning ceremony.
The program’s faculty presented the graduates with pins to mark their transition from students to dental professionals and stoles to wear during their graduation ceremony.
WCC Dean of Allied Health and Public Services Janeil Marak said the graduates are embracing a profound responsibility through their chosen profession. “Today marks the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to the art and science of dental hygiene,” she said. “As dental hygienists, you’ll touch lives not only with your skills but with your care and compassion. The future of hygiene is bright, and it begins with you.”
Mariah Gurkin, president of the Dental Hygiene class, spoke about the graduates’ hard work that bonded them and has resulted in their successful completion of the challenging program. “I want to thank my teammates—we weren’t just classmates. I now have lifelong friends,” she said. “We have earned this. This is it; everything we have been through has led us right here.”
On behalf of this year’s graduating class, Caroline Cutler presented a monetary gift to the Foundation of WCC to be used for scholarships.
Awards were presented to several graduates during the ceremony.
The Outstanding Student Curriculum Award went to Alana Reeves, who was also recognized at WCC’s Student Recognition Ceremony held last month. She was selected by faculty members as the student whose academic accomplishments best represent the Dental Hygiene program.
Brittany Mize earned the Highest Academic Achievement Award. This award is presented to the student who has demonstrated exceptional academic achievement throughout the entirety of the Dental Hygiene program, maintaining the highest cumulative grade point average.
The Highest Clinical Average Award was given to Katie Putman. It honors the student who achieved the highest average in Clinic IV, one of the most challenging and rigorous components of the program. Clinic IV demands the mastery of a wide range of clinical skills, critical thinking, and the ability to meet complex patient care requirements under pressure.
Audrey Smith was named as the recipient of the Star Award, sponsored by Colgate, which is given to a graduate who excels in dedication, compassion in patient care, self-motivation, professionalism, and outstanding clinical skills. Her name will be added to an ongoing plaque displayed in the Dental Department.
The Golden Scaler Award, sponsored by Hu-Friedy, went to Stefany Reyes. The award has become a symbol of dental hygiene excellence and acknowledges outstanding clinical skills as well as all-around clinical excellence in patient care.
Citlaly Andrade Briones received the Community Health Award, which is based on a student’s active participation, enthusiasm, and initiative to serve in various local groups through a Community Dental Health course.
The 20 graduates, listed by city of residence, are
Blount’s Creek
Caroline Cutler
Clayton
Shelby Blair
Caitlin Young
Dingess, WV
Jodie Vance
Goldsboro
Alana Reeves
Greenville
Madelyne Cheshire
Mariah Gurkin
Kenly
Lindsey Holland
Amber Pinion
Lenoir
Audrey Smith
Micro
Brandie Cory
Middlesex
Mekenzie Martin
Mount Holly
Ah’Santi McIlwaine
Mount Olive
Abdiel Aguirre
Newton Grove
Stefany Reyes
Washington
Citlaly Andrade Briones
Brittany Mize
Wilson
Lindsey Galloway
Winterville
Jessica Purcell
Katie Putman
WCC’s limited-admission Dental Hygiene program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). It offers students a two-year degree and allows them to take the written National Board Dental Hygiene Exam and the clinical American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) exam. They must pass the exams to become licensed to practice dental hygiene in North Carolina.
For more information on WCC’s Dental Hygiene program, visit the College’s website.
About Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College is a public, learning-centered institution with an open-door admission policy located in Goldsboro, N.C. As it works to develop a highly skilled and competitive workforce, the college serves around 10,000 individuals annually as well as businesses, industry, and community organizations with high quality, affordable, accessible learning opportunities, including more than 150 college credit programs. WCC’s mission is to meet the educational, training, and cultural needs of the communities it serves.