* Scholarship promotes excellence in future dentistry leaders

* Recipient an ‘above average’ student in his/her academic performance

* Student processes qualities of integrity, imagination, initiative and communication skills

A leading Charles Sturt University (CSU) dentistry student has been awarded a scholarship from a prestigious international dental organisation.

A leading Charles Sturt University (CSU) dentistry student has been awarded a scholarship from a prestigious international dental organisation.

After careful consideration by a professional selection panel, Region VIII of the Pierre Fauchard Academy (PFA) has awarded a PFA Foundation scholarship to fourth-year student Ms Stephanie Hollis (pictured left) in the CSU School of Dentistry and Health Sciences in Orange.

The selection criteria for the $1,000 PFA Oral Health Scholarship Award states: ‘The selected student should demonstrate great potential for developing into an outstanding leader in the profession because of his/her participation in the University, the dental school and/or the community. The nominee should be an ‘above average’ student in his/her academic performance. The qualities of integrity, imagination, initiative and communication skills should enter into the selection process as well as the recipient’s ‘need’ for financial support.’

Head of the School of Dentistry and Health Sciences Professor Boyen Huang (pictured with Ms Hollis) said Ms Hollis was an outstanding student and worthy recipient of the scholarship.

“We are delighted for Stephanie, and thank the Pierre Fauchard Academy for its interest in the School and its support of our students,” Professor Huang said.

Ms Hollis, who comes from Fishing Point on Lake Macquarie south of Newcastle in NSW, said it was a surprise and an honour to receive the PFA scholarship.

“I was very grateful to be nominated to apply for the Pierre Fauchard Scholarship, and feel honoured to represent Charles Sturt University as the recipient,” Ms Hollis said.

“The grant will assist me throughout my placement year based in Dubbo, NSW. My ultimate goal is to use my skills in a rural or remote public health setting.”