Sheila Bannister, RDH selected as VDHA 2012/2013 Hygienist of the year!

Nomination Letter:

July 25, 2012

Dear President Dietrich,

It is my pleasure to nominate Ms. Sheila Bannister as the VDHA Outstanding Dental Hygienist of the Year.  Sheila began her dental hygiene career later in life, but our profession is extremely fortunate that she chose us.  There are very few dental hygienists who are as dedicated to growing our profession as Sheila.  She served not one, but two consecutive terms as the VDHA Co-President.  Having served as President for one term I can tell you that this in itself is remarkable.  She spent an inordinate amount of time working with the Board of Dental Examiners on the rule that allows dental hygienists to practice in private and public settings without the direct supervision of a dentist.  For the past two years she has spent many, many hours in meetings both in Vermont and around the country and writing countless letters and e-mails in support of the legislation to create a new dental provider in Vermont – the Licensed Dental Practitioner.

Sheila has taught with me at UVM and now the Vermont Technical College for the last 7 years.  Students have attested to her ability to help them improve their clinical skills.  In addition, as part of her Clinical Dental Hygiene class she implemented a debate on the importance of joining your professional association.  I believe that this will help increase our membership. 

It is without hesitation that I nominate Sheila for this award as I believe she is the most deserving individual.  I hope that you and your committee will bestow this award upon her.

Sincerely,

Ellen B. Grimes

Ellen B. Grimes, RDH, MA, MPA, Ed.D