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College of The Albemarle (COA) held its first pinning ceremony for dental assisting course completers on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. The event, held at COA – Elizabeth City, honored the dedication and achievements of the inaugural class. Each received a ceremonial pin and recited a dental assisting pledge.

The dental assisting course at COA was established to meet the growing demand for skilled dental professionals in northeastern North Carolina. With start-up funding secured earlier this year, COA developed a course that directly addresses regional workforce needs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared with both practical and academic training. Previously, COA students participated in a dental assisting course through Catawba Valley Community College, with classes held at the ECU Dental Clinic in Elizabeth City. The new course at COA also continued that collaboration with ECU Dental to offer students the opportunity to receive high-quality dental assisting education locally.

Robin Harris, COA dean of health sciences and wellness programs, praised the inaugural class and acknowledged the community support that contributed to the program’s success: “This pinning ceremony is more than a celebration of academic achievement; it reflects COA’s commitment to training dedicated professionals who will significantly impact our region’s dental health services. We are incredibly proud of these graduates, who are entering a rewarding field and fulfilling a vital need in our communities. We are especially grateful to those who ensured our students had opportunities for clinical externships, providing them with invaluable hands-on experience to confidently begin their careers.”

This class included students from across the region: Joliegh Connor, Perquimans County; McKenzie Conroy, Chowan County; Mya Erpelding, Dare County; Kamryn Nash, Camden County; Ashleigh Owens, Perquimans County; Carrie Perez, Perquimans County; Kimberly Rollinson, Perquimans County; Selena Shuey, Perquimans County; Daisy Swayne, Perquimans County; Crystal Taylor, Gates County; Cassidi Vandyne, Perquimans County; Stephanie Vermillion, Currituck County; and Alexis Wooten, Pasquotank County.

“The Dental Assisting course at COA offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the essential skills for entry-level positions in dental practices. The next cohort begins classes on January 7, 2025, and prospective students are encouraged to explore this transformative educational opportunity,” stated a COA news release.

For more information on the course, contact the COA Continuing Education Office at 252-335-0821 ext. 2368 or 2250.

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