The Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) celebrated Community Health Aides, Behavioral Health Aides, and Dental Health Aide Therapists (DHATs) at its annual awards ceremony on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, in Anchorage, AK. Three awards recognized dental health aides: The Rising Star, Shining Star, and Outstanding Accomplishment Awards.

The Rising Star and Shining Star Awards recognize employees who demonstrate excellence by continuously delivering exceptional patient care, have somehow improved the healthcare delivery system, enhanced the level of care in their community, and demonstrated balance in their work and professional lives. This year's Rising Star is Jerilyn Glenn, a DHAT with less than five years of experience who works with the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation in Emmonak, AK. Renee Cheemuk, a DHAT with over five years of experience, was awarded the Shining Star for her work with the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation in St. Mary, AK.

The Outstanding Accomplishment Award recognizes an event that has substantially impacted the community and/or patient care. A successful candidate will have demonstrated exceptional service that has influenced the health outcomes for an individual or the overall community. Leandra Beech, a DHAT with the ANTHC, received this year's award for her work in a new pediatrics program in Anchorage, AK.

The ADTA congratulates Jerilyn, Renee, and Leandra for their outstanding achievements in Alaska. Each of you is making a significant impact in your communities. Congratulations!