The ADHA Professional Fellows Program honors our distinguished members and their collective achievements in dental hygiene.

 

With more than 400 inspiring Fellows nationwide and growing — including current and past ADHA presidents, editors and authors, clinical leaders, researchers, state association leaders, program directors, and nationally recognized educators — the FADHA credential represents the best of our profession. It signifies a dental hygienist who has met rigorous standards, been reviewed and continues to meet the requirements.

ADHA Professional Fellow Requirements

We welcome dental hygienists from all practice areas of the profession who demonstrate a love of learning and leadership, and a commitment to excellence in their field. Applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. The deadline for the Class of 2026 ADHA Fellows is July 31, 2026. Candidates for ADHA Professional Fellow will attest to or submit:

  • Membership: Minimum five years of ADHA professional membership (consecutive not required)
  • Continuing Education: Accumulated 100 CE credits over any five-year period 
  • Professional Contribution: Active participation in the dental hygiene profession through practice, scholarship (publications, research, presentations), volunteerism, and/or leadership
  • Professional References: Two signed references from oral health colleagues who endorse your candidacy as an ADHA Professional Fellow and can speak to your contributions and character 
  • Documentation: A current resume or CV
  • Personal Statement: A 500-words essay describing your contributions to the dental hygiene field
  • Application Fee: $250 one-time fee 

APPLY TO BE AN ADHA PROFESSIONAL FELLOW

All applications are reviewed, and acceptance is not guaranteed. Applicants who do not meet the criteria may be asked to reapply in a future cycle. Fellows are expected to maintain their membership and professional standing; those who do not comply with ongoing requirements may be removed from the program.

Benefits of ADHA Professional Fellowship

Adding ADHA Professional Fellows Program credentials to your name is an expression of your outstanding contributions to dental hygiene and to our association. When ADHA needs expertise, insight, or representation, Fellows are our first call. FADHA is a distinguished designation that is recognized by your peers and the entire oral health field.

Professional Recognition

  • FADHA Credential: Use the official Fellow of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (FADHA) designation after your name
  • Annual Conference Recognition: New Fellows are celebrated at ADHA’s Annual Conference, complete with certificates, pins, group photos with leadership  and social media recognition.
  • Public Acknowledgment: Names of new Fellows are displayed during the conference, announced via press release and displayed on the ADHA website.
  • Fellows Directory: Fellows may list their information and specializations in a directory for exclusive Fellow peer access, networking and mentorship.

Ongoing Engagement & Opportunities

  • Subject Matter Experts: ADHA turns to the Professional Fellows group ADHA when media request expert commentary on the field, for committees, and special projects.
  • Writing/Research Opportunities: Fellows are invited to contribute articles to Hygienist Hub, the Journal of Dental Hygiene, research project and professional initiatives
  • Speaking Opportunities: Fellows are considered for presentations at ADHA events and partner programs
  • Peer Network: Access to a community of accomplished colleagues for networking, mentorship, and professional exchange

Exclusive Benefits

  • Program Communications: Receive dedicated communications about Fellow-specific opportunities and initiatives
  • Special Discounts: Fellows receive exclusive discounts on select educational offerings

ADHA Professional Fellow is a lifetime designation. The only requirement to maintain your designation is to remain an ADHA professional member in good standing.*

APPLY TO BE AN ADHA PROFESSIONAL FELLOW

*If a Fellow’s ADHA membership lapses, the Fellow will be subject to the Policy for Removal of Fellow Status.