The Waterpik brand has partnered with Atlanta's Art of Aesthetics Dental Studio to launch the HBCU Campus Crusade tour, an initiative aimed at promoting oral health and entrepreneurship among students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This collaborative effort seeks to empower students with essential oral health knowledge, entrepreneurial insights, and scholarship opportunities through interactive sessions at Howard University and the Atlanta University Center.
The tour will feature live product demonstrations led by Dr. Quodarrius "Dr. Q" Toney, founder of AOA and a Howard University alumnus, who will provide guidance on maintaining oral health for college students who often neglect dental care due to time constraints and limited access. Students will receive complimentary Waterpik devices, Essentials Co. Toothbrushes, and other oral health products during these sessions. Recognizing the importance of supporting future dental professionals, Waterpik has committed to awarding two scholarships at Howard University: a $20,000 scholarship for a dental student and a $5,000 contribution to support the university's dental program.
Charisse Winecki, Waterpik VP of Global Marketing, emphasized the brand's commitment to making dental care more accessible and empowering underserved communities with the tools and knowledge necessary to maintain healthy smiles. The partnership with Dr. Q and his team aims to provide students with effective solutions for dental care management and inspire the next generation of oral health leaders. The HBCU Campus Crusade will also feature panel discussions at each campus, bringing together experts in oral health, entrepreneurship for minorities, and pre-dental career pathways to equip students with valuable information on navigating healthcare challenges, starting businesses, and preparing for careers in dentistry.
Dr. Q, reflecting on his own experiences as an HBCU graduate, expressed his enthusiasm for equipping students with the tools and education they deserve to make informed decisions about their oral health. The tour's impact extends beyond immediate oral health benefits, aiming to foster long-term career development and entrepreneurship within the African American community. By combining practical oral health education with insights into business and professional development, the HBCU Campus Crusade represents a holistic approach to student empowerment. Scheduled stops include Howard University on October 17, 2024, and the Atlanta University Center from October 24-26, 2024.
This initiative addresses significant challenges in access to dental care and entrepreneurial opportunities in healthcare for underserved communities. By targeting HBCUs, Waterpik and AOA are addressing these issues at their roots, potentially influencing the future landscape of oral health care and minority-owned businesses in the dental industry. The collaboration showcases the potential for corporate-professional partnerships to create meaningful impact in education and healthcare. For more information on the HBCU Campus Crusade tour and scholarship opportunities, interested parties can visit www.umanagementpr.com.
