Dental Program receives awards for its leadership and commitment to community oral health

Photo caption: CHC Dental Program receives the John McFarland Leadership Award. Pictured from left to right: Rachel Morsette, Gisela Zepeda, Suzanne Malin, Noelle Phan, Teresa Perez, Daniel Martinez Tovar, Azma Ahmed, An Nguyen (NNOHA President), Maria Deming, Norma Santiago Hernandez, Maciek Dolata, Christian Thomson
 

CHC Dental Program wins leadership award for service to the community

The Multnomah County Community Health Center (CHC) Dental Program has received distinguished recognition on both the national and international stage for its leadership, service, and commitment to community-oriented oral health care.

This year, the program was honored with the John McFarland Leadership Award from the National Network for Oral Health Access (NNOHA) - one of the highest honors in the community health dental field.

The John McFarland Leadership Award is presented annually to individuals or organizations that demonstrate exceptional leadership and initiative in promoting oral health services for underserved populations. Named in honor of Dr. John McFarland, a pioneer in integrating dental and medical care and a lifelong advocate for migrants and underserved communities, the award recognizes “extraordinary service,” “outstanding achievement,” and an enduring commitment to improving access to care. It reflects the “do more” spirit that defines community health dentistry nationwide.

This recognition speaks to the strength of the entire Dental Program including providers, dental assistants, hygienists, front office and support staff, community health workers, program supervisors, and leadership. It reflects the integration of dental and medical services, the expansion of access points, a deep commitment to culturally responsive care, and a focus on prevention, education, and whole-person health.

A group of CHC Dental Program employees accepted the award at the NNOHA national conference in San Antonio, TX. 

In addition to this national recognition, CHC Dental Director, Dr. Azma Ahmed, was inducted for international recognition in fall 2025 as a Fellow of the Pierre Fauchard Academy in Washington, DC. Founded in 1936, the Academy recognizes outstanding leadership in the dental profession internationally. Fellowship is invitation-only and extended to fewer than 3% of dentists worldwide. Candidates are nominated by peers and selected based on demonstrated leadership, integrity, service, and contributions to the advancement of dentistry. Induction as a Fellow also represents an ongoing commitment to ethical standards, mentorship, professional excellence, and improving global oral health.

Together, these recognitions reflect the impact and excellence of the CHC’s Dental Program as a whole. They underscore its role as a leader in community health dentistry and affirm that the work taking place across our centers meets the highest standards of service and leadership in the field.

The Dental Program’s continued dedication to expanding access to high-quality oral health care strengthens the organization’s mission and advances health equity for the communities it serves.

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