He receives ICD-WUDAA scholarship
Jiahe (Dylan) He, DDS ’26, received a 2025-2026 International College of Dentists - Washington University Dental Alumni Association scholarship.
This annual award provides financial support to dental students based on financial need, academic excellence, leadership, community service and the recommendation of a fellow of the International College of Dentists, a Washington University in St. Louis alumnus or a dental school faculty.
Growing up in rural China, He saw first-hand how important access to oral health care is for overall and community health. “Many of my neighbors, especially the elderly, struggled with tooth loss and the difficulties it created in daily life,” he recalled. “When I later moved to a larger city, I was able to receive treatment for my own decayed and misaligned teeth. That experience showed me how profoundly oral health can impact not just physical wellbeing, but also self-confidence and social connection.”
Learning the value of oral health inspired He to pursue dentistry “as a way to bridge the gaps in oral health care for underserved communities.” He is a first-generation dental student and college student, who takes his role seriously. “Today, as a dental student and future dentist, I have committed myself to advancing patient care, education and research to create meaningful change in oral health equity,” He explained.
He chose to apply for the ICD-WUDAA scholarship “because it reflects the values I strive to uphold: service, leadership and advancing the dental profession through patient-centered care and education,” he shared. “My journey has not been easy, as my family’s finances were severely affected by the economy and medical expenses. While I work as a dental tutor and a public health nurse support, tuition remains a significant challenge. This scholarship will provide crucial support, enabling me to more fully focus on clinical training, patient care and community service.”
He was moved to receive the scholarship award. “It felt like recognition not only of my hard work but also of the mission I have committed myself to—bringing better oral health to underserved populations through service, education and research,” he explained. “It gave me a sense of encouragement that others believe in my path and my potential as a future leader in dentistry. In the long run, this support will help me build a stronger foundation for my career as a future dentist and educator.”
As he prepares to graduate in the spring, He looks forward to becoming a general dentist “who commits to evidence-based, patient-centered clinical practice and community service,” while also mentoring dental students and volunteering to provide oral health care to his community and to others around the world.
“Ultimately, I want to be both a clinician and a leader who improves oral health equity and empowers others through education."