Mile Square Health Center

Fifteen participants graduated from Mile Square Health Center's Dental Assistant Certification Program on Sept. 4, marking the program's 10th cohort. The class brings the program's total to 92 graduates since its 2022 launch.

State Sen. Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) delivered the keynote address. Dr. Karriem S. Watson, CEO of Mile Square Health Center, gave opening remarks. Lashaundra Johnson, dental clinic coordinator, and Dr. Sodabeh "Sue" Etminan, senior director of oral health, presented certificates to the graduates.

The program trains dental assistants to work in public health settings alongside other health disciplines. Participants prepare to assist in medically complex care, pediatric services, oral surgery, and prosthetic services. Coursework combines lectures and hands-on lab training with a clinical externship. Classes meet weekly at Mile Square Primary & Immediate Care Center in Auburn Gresham, where students train on current technology, including digital imaging and electronic health records. Certified staff teach the courses and oversee clinical rotations.

The program is open to anyone with a high school diploma or GED. Tuition assistance is provided by the Illinois Children's Healthcare Foundation, so students pay only a $300 fee for textbooks and uniforms.

The 10th cohort graduates are:

• Olga Alvarez
• Monique Bryson
• Canesha Coleman
• Alexis Derrick
• Marina Fortuno
• Dominique Hill
• Kimmeon Hudson
• Tawonnie Hunt
• Alexia Joe
• Chiquita McCray
• Dania Escobedo Montes
• Kemonte Montgomery
• Jeana Myrick
• Tamara Williams
• Pajdra Woods

Those interested in joining a future cohort can learn more and apply here. Questions can be sent to DACertification@uic.edu.