
Nominations Open: 2025 AAWD Eleanor J. Bushee Senior Dental Student Award
AAWD is excited to announce the opening of nominations for the 2025 Eleanor J. Bushee Senior Dental Student Awards!
This prestigious award honors senior dental students who have demonstrated academic excellence and outstanding leadership.
Dr. Eleanor J. Bushee graduated from Northwestern Dental School in 1944. After 15 years in private practice, she joined academia, ultimately becoming a Professor of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, as well as the Assistant Dean for Administration at Southern Illinois University of Dental Medicine. She was also an accomplished author, lecturer, 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
- Each dental school may nominate one senior dental student for the Eleanor Bushee Award. Nominations must be submitted by a dean or faculty advisor, and only one nominee per school will be considered.
- Nominees must be current AAWD National members at the time of nomination.
- If the nominee is not a member, she can join as a Student Annual Member ($65) through the AAWD website before the nomination is submitted.
- 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.
How to Nominate
Advisors or deans are encouraged to submit a nomination by completing the 2025 AAWD Eleanor Bushee Award nomination form.
📬 Deadline for nominations: March 14, 2025.
Please allow 2–3 weeks from the nomination deadline for certificates and pins to arrive by mail.