Dr. Bertha Barriga Scholarship Award Winners

2026 Award Winners

Brittney is a single mother of two children and a student at the University of Washington School of Dentistry.  She began a career in dentistry as a certified dental assistant, to help raise her three younger siblings, before acquiring an undergraduate degree in biochemistry. Brittney has a strong commitment to public health and community service which she intends to continue after graduation. She has previously volunteered with Dental Day for Vets, Give a Kid a Smile, participated in dental missions to Mexico, and spent time in Cambodia providing dental care to women and children rescued from sex trafficking. In Brittney’s words “I have witnessed the impact of providing compassionate dental care and my belief that oral health is imperative to systemic and mental health has been reinforced. Providing dental care to everyone, not just those who can afford it, is a critical part of being a provider”. 

One of Brittney’s references had the following to say about her:  “What makes Brittney deserving of this scholarship is her ability to excel despite the financial and personal challenges that she has faced during her educational journey… Her perseverance in balancing financial responsibility with her educational goals is a testament to both her character and her unwavering commitment to this path.”

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Tabetha is a 3rd year student at the University of Washington School of Dentistry.  She is active in several student organizations at UW, including the Hispanic Student Dental Association, the Student Dental Association, UW chapter and is President of the American Association of Women Dentists, UW chapter. She is committed to community service and for several years has volunteered time as a dental assistant to provide free services to the Union Gospel Mission, the Seattle King County Clinic, 1000 Smiles Dental Service Project in Jamaica and in partnership with Kaiser has provided services in underserved populations in Washington. Tabetha’s goal is to pursue a residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery because it combines surgical skill with the opportunity to increase patients' quality of life, especially those who are underserved or struggling with trauma, disease, or addiction.  

As one of Tabetha’s references said about her:  “Tabetha has come a long way from a difficult early home life, which is a testament to her excellent character. I think she has made a conscience decision to rise above by simply being the best version of herself, regardless of the activity. I have no doubt that she has the confidence, attitude and determination to become an excellent surgeon.”