LAS CRUCES — A Doña Ana Community College professor has earned international recognition for his contributions to oral health education and community service.
Dr. Elmer Gonzalez, a Dental Hygiene professor at Doña Ana Community College, has received the World Dental Hygienist Award from the Sunstar Foundation, becoming the first recipient from New Mexico to earn the honor. He is also one of six professionals selected worldwide for the award series and the first recipient in the Academia category.
Dr. Gonzalez currently serves as the interim dean of DACC’s Business and Public Services Division and previously served as department chair for Dental Programs. The World Dental Hygiene Awards recognize dental hygienists who have made outstanding contributions to oral health through clinical care, research, education, and community impact. The awards are presented by the Sunstar Foundation in partnership with the International Federation of Dental Hygienists.
In a statement, Dr. Gonzalez said the recognition reflects the work of the entire dental and health sciences team, students, and college administration. He noted that his passion for dental hygiene was shaped by witnessing the challenges many communities face in accessing care and said the award reinforces his commitment to expanding access to oral health services.
As part of the honor, Dr. Gonzalez will join a global network of dental hygiene professionals and attend the 2026 International Symposium on Dental Hygiene scheduled for this summer in Milan, Italy.
John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications – john@bravomic.com
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