In a recent ABC27 Good Day PA segment, Dr. Michael Verber and Trisha Comstock, Executive Director of the Central Penn College Foundation, discussed their collaborative efforts to address Pennsylvania’s dental workforce shortage. Dr. Verber emphasized that the lack of dental hygienists, dental assistants, and expanded function dental assistants is the root cause of the access to care crisis. Central Penn College is uniquely positioned to develop this workforce with housing capabilities that allow students from underserved areas to attend, but success depends on the Foundation’s financial support for students.
The Central Penn College Foundation awards hundreds of scholarships annually to help offset tuition, books, and other college expenses. Currently, they’re running the “2 Front Teeth” campaign with an ambitious goal of raising $2 million in 2 years—reflecting the 2 million Pennsylvanians without access to oral care. The campaign has gained significant momentum with a $300,000 grant from Delta Dental, Verber Dental Group’s $200,000 pledge (already halfway complete), and contributions from Chuck Cohen, the Harrisburg Area Dental Society, and other area dentists. Students interested in scholarship opportunities can learn more at CentralPenn.edu/scholarships. This initiative represents a long-term investment in creating phenomenal career opportunities while addressing critical community healthcare needs.
