Lila Pierce, a second-year dental hygiene student at the University of Maine at Augusta, has been appointed as a student delegate to the American Dental Hygienists Association House of Delegates. Representing District 1—which includes Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont—she will join ten other selected students and professional delegates from across the country in June to review proposed resolutions and help shape the future of the profession.
Only one student from the national delegation will be selected to cast an official vote during the House of Delegates meeting. Until then, Lila is attending state meetings, working with her mentor Traci Dempsey, president of the Maine Dental Hygiene Board, and preparing for the experience. “I never imagined being able to engage in the profession in such a big and far-reaching way while still in school,” she said. “It’s exciting, and I want to contribute in a meaningful way.”
Lila’s interest in dental hygiene began when she was just seven years old and had a positive experience with a hygienist who made her feel comfortable and cared for. After high school, she was accepted to an out-of-state program, but cost put it out of reach. She chose UMA for its affordability and proximity—and discovered an environment that exceeded her expectations. “The faculty are always willing to help,” she said. “They’re engaged with us in class, on Zoom, even in our group chats. They make sure we’re never alone in this.”
Now in the clinic, Lila says the hands-on experience is helping her dream come to life. She’s especially grateful for UMA’s professionalism course, which she says gave her the tools to not only act like a professional, but become one. “Finally being able to get my hands-on experience in the clinic feels unreal,” she said. “So far I’m really enjoying my newfound career. I’m excited to test the limits of this profession even after I graduate.”