Professor Amy Coplen, the director of Pacific University’s School of Dental Hygiene Studies, was named the University of Michigan’s 2022 Dental Hygiene Alumna of the Year Award in recognition of her work to persuade the Oregon Legislature to allow the licensure of dental therapists.
News, Media and Stories | Amy Coplen
Dental Hygiene Director Amy Coplen Honored by University of Michigan For Oregon Advocacy, Leadership
Rosalie Goode ’15 became a dental hygienist through Pacific University’s School of Dental Hygiene. Now, thanks to a statewide pilot program at Pacific, she has become the first licensed member of a new cohort of mid-level dental provider in Oregon.
Pacific University faculty members and supporters have advocated for several years for recognition for a new class of dental care provider. This month, the Oregon Legislature signed on.
Amy Coplen has been promoted to full professor in the Pacific University School of Dental Hygiene Studies.
With Oregon focused on ways to improve some residents' access to health services, Professor Amy Coplen, who directs the School of Dental Hygiene Studies, told a radio audience about Pacific's dental therapy program.