BHCC Celebrates First Graduating Cohort of Dental Assisting Essentials Program
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC) celebrated a major milestone on August 18 as students in the College's inaugural Dental Assisting Essentials cohort completed the 25-week workforce training program. The ceremony recognized the students' achievements while highlighting the program's growth, leadership, and expanding clinical training opportunities.
Launched in February, the Dental Assisting Essentials Program prepares students for entry-level careers in modern dental practices through a combination of classroom instruction, clinical laboratory training, and hands-on learning. Students receive training in dental science, infection prevention, radiography, chairside assisting, dental materials, digital dentistry, and patient care, while also developing professionalism, ethics, and critical thinking skills.
The celebration brought together students, faculty, and college leadership to recognize the cohort's accomplishments and the program's impact in addressing workforce needs in oral healthcare.
"Today's celebration of the inaugural class reflects the commitment and perseverance of our students, who have worked hard to develop the skills needed for successful careers in healthcare," said Kristen McKenna, Dean of Workforce and Economic Development. "This program demonstrates BHCC's commitment to creating accessible pathways into high-demand professions while meeting the workforce needs of employers across the region." Many of the students have already been hired, which demonstrates the quality of the program and the incredible demand from employers.
Under the leadership of Chief Dental Officer Dr. Ryan Lee, the program is committed to maintaining high standards of clinical competency and academic excellence while advancing toward Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards and ensuring compliance with Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry requirements.
The program is directed by Michael S. Gendron, CDA, EFDA, PCT, who oversees curriculum development and instruction. Drawing on extensive experience in dental assisting education, implant dentistry, workforce development, and clinical training, Gendron has helped build a program that emphasizes evidence-based learning and real-world preparation.
Clinical laboratory instruction is led by Dr. Gloria Tolentino, who guides students through chairside procedures, instrumentation, infection control practices, dental materials, and patient care techniques in a fully equipped clinical simulation environment. Together, the program's leadership team is focused on preparing competent, compassionate, and highly skilled dental assistants for careers in private practice, specialty dentistry, community health centers, and beyond.
As the first cohort crosses the graduation stage, BHCC looks ahead to the continued growth of the Dental Assisting Essentials Program and its role in expanding access to healthcare careers while helping meet the increasing demand for skilled dental professionals.
The online application process for the Spring 2027 Cohort begins Oct. 13, 2026. Learn more about how to apply.