Mile Square Celebrates Dental Assistant Graduation, Congresswoman Kelly Gives Keynote
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On July 30th, 2025, students from the Mile Square Dental Assistant Certification Program were joined by family, friends and university and community leaders, to celebrate their graduation as certified dental assistants. This was the eighth cohort to graduate bringing the total since the program began in 2022, to nearly 60 graduates. While many of the graduates are hired at the dental clinic at Mile Square, others have found careers at neighboring hospitals and health centers, while others have enrolled in dental programs, including at the UIC College of Dentistry, to further their education. Congresswoman Robin Kelly (2nd congressional district, Illinois) served as keynote speaker applauding the accomplishments of the newest graduates.
Mile Square Health Center launched its Dental Assistant Certification Program at its Primary and Immediate Care Center located in the Auburn Gresham Healthy Lifestyle Hub on the city’s South Side, where unemployment is significantly higher than in other parts of Chicago and access to health care is more scarce. The program, led by Dr. Sodabeh (Sue) Etminan, dental director at Mile Square Health Center, was designed to connect people to jobs and improve access to dental care. Applications are accepted in the spring and fall for the 14-week program, with approximately 200 submitted each session for the 8 spots available. Through support from the Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation, and others, students are only responsible for a $300 fee to cover textbooks and uniforms.
Classes are held weekly at the clinic in Auburn Gresham. The modern setting allows students to learn with the most up-to-date technology, including digital imaging and electronic records. When they graduate, they are ready to assist in cases including medically complex care, pediatric services, oral surgery and prosthetic services.
The program has been and continues to be a resounding success, helping to fill the gap in trained dental assistants, while opening up opportunities in oral health care for members of the community.
