AAWD is excited to announce the opening of nominations for the 2025 Eleanor J. Bushee Senior Dental Student Award!

This prestigious award honors senior dental students who have demonstrated academic excellence and outstanding leadership.

Dr. Bushee graduated from Northwestern Dental School in 1944. After 15 years in private practice, she entered the academic world. She attained the position of Professor of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics as well as Assistant Dean for Administration at Southern Illinois University of Dental Medicine. Dr. Bushee was an accomplished author and lecturer. She lived her life with verve and style. The recipient of this award should demonstrate enthusiasm in her career in dentistry and in her life as a colleague, friend, and mentor.

The recipient of this award will embody the spirit of Dr. Bushee, demonstrating enthusiasm for their career in dentistry and their life as a colleague, friend, and mentor.

Nomination Guidelines

1. Each dental school may nominate one senior dental student for the Bushee Award. Nominations must be submitted by a dean or faculty advisor, and only one nominee per school will be considered. 
2. Nominees must be current AAWD National membersat the time of nomination.
   • If the nominee is not a member, she can join as a Student Annual Member ($65) before the nomination is submitted through the AAWD website.
3. Award recipients will receive:
   • An upgrade to the Early Career Dentist membership level in June.
   • A one-year extension to their current membership expiration date.

AAWD will mail a certificate to the nominator to present to the recipient at their discretion.

Checking Membership Status

If you’re unsure about your nominee’s membership status, please contact AAWD at info@aawd.org before submitting the nomination form. We’re happy to assist with verification or provide guidance on membership applications if needed.

We understand this adjustment may be new for some nominators, and we appreciate your understanding and support as we continue to celebrate and elevate the outstanding women in dentistry who are part of the AAWD community.

The deadline for return of materials is March 14, 2025.

Thank you for helping us honor and support the next generation of women leaders in dentistry. Your partnership is essential in creating a stronger, more connected community of women in dentistry!

Warm regards,
The American Association of Women Dentists