"Let's give the world something to smile about."

Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed faculty, proud parents, and most importantly, my fellow classmates,

As we gather here this afternoon at our senior banquet, we stand at the peak of an exciting new chapter in our lives. It's a moment ripe with emotion, reflection, and anticipation. Today, we celebrate not just the end of our journey in dental hygiene education but also the beginning of our professional voyage into a world that needs us more than ever.

When we first embarked on this journey, we were equipped with nothing but our aspirations and a shared goal: to make a difference in the world of oral health. Along the way, we've faced challenges that tested our resilience, expanded our knowledge, and sharpened our skills. We've spent countless hours studying topics of dental anatomy, learning various dental materials, building multiple oral health lesson plans, capturing dental radiographs, perfecting the administration of local anesthesia, mastering the techniques of dental hygiene instrumentation, and understanding the profound impact of oral health on overall well-being. These challenges were not just hurdles but stepping stones that have prepared us for the path ahead.

We've also experienced moments of profound joy and friendship. From the late-night study sessions to the early morning clinical practices, we've built friendships that will last a lifetime. We've shared in each other's successes and supported one another through setbacks. These experiences have woven a tapestry of memories that we will cherish forever.

Today, as we stand on the brink of our future, we owe a debt of gratitude to those who have guided us along this path. To our esteemed faculty, thank you for your unwavering dedication, for challenging us to be our best selves, and for instilling in us a passion for our profession. To our families and loved ones, thank you for your endless support and encouragement. Your belief in us has been our beacon of hope and strength.

As we step into the world as dental hygienists, we are tasked with a noble mission. We are not just clinicians; we are educators, advocates, and innovators. We have the power to transform lives through our work, to advocate for the importance of oral health, and to innovate in our practices to meet the evolving needs of our communities. Let us embrace this responsibility with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence.

Today, let us celebrate our achievements and the journey that has brought us here. But let us also look forward with eager anticipation to the opportunities that lie ahead. The world is waiting for us to make our mark, to improve health and well-being one smile at a time. Let's go forth with confidence, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Congratulations, Class of 2024. Our adventure begins now and let's give the world something to smile about!

Thank you.

Lauren Byrnside