The partnership aims to amplify diversity within the industry by addressing students’ barriers to completion, including financial support.
TempMee, an industry leading skill-sharing marketplace app for the dental industry, launched a joint scholarship opportunity in partnership with BrownGirl, RDH, a nonprofit organization dedicated to removing cultural and economic barriers affecting the dental hygiene workforce pipeline. One of TempMee’s co-founders, Edward “Ed” Thomas, was joined on stage by BrownGirl, RDH representative Melat Hussen at the American Dental Hygienists Association Conference earlier this month to first make the announcement. The partnership with TempMee marks the first time BrownGirl, RDH will offer full tuition support to a recipient.
The scholarship, valued at $18,000, will cover tuition expenses for two years for one student pursuing either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene. Together, the companies aim to offer financial support to deserving students across the United States while fostering cultural diversity within the dental hygiene field.
Since its launch, TempMee co-founders Ed Thomas and Cary Gahm have sought to address the critical dental employment shortage. Though the company’s app has been widely perceived as a revolutionary tool to address the crisis, Thomas and Gahm understood the need for deeper support in the development of the employee pipeline.
“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with BrownGirl, RDH and the launch of this impactful scholarship program. We believe that by investing in the education and success of aspiring dental hygienists, we are contributing to the future of oral healthcare,” said Thomas. “Through this partnership, we’re able to empower the next generation and help ensure they have the resources and opportunities needed to excel in their careers. Our hope is that we can help shape the future of the profession and drive positive change throughout the industry.”
Recognizing the meaningful work of BrownGirl, RDH to help minority and marginalized communities find success in the dental field, TempMee reached out to Chief Executive Officer Martelle Coke to discuss a potential partnership opportunity. Together, TempMee and BrownGirl, RDH developed a scholarship aimed at increasing the availability of qualified dental hygienists in the marketplace.
“Diversity plays a critical role in shaping the dental industry and we are committed to fostering inclusivity and providing equal opportunities for all registered dental hygienists,” said Gahm. “This scholarship program not only provides financial support, but it also will help foster an inclusive and equitable environment. We are excited to work alongside BrownGirl, RDH and make a lasting impact on the lives of deserving students looking to pursue a career in the dental industry.”
To be eligible, applicants must be based in the U.S., have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and demonstrate financial need with an income limit of $35,000 per year. Additionally, students must be members of BrownGirl, RDH. The application process requires a written essay, which will be reviewed by the BrownGirl, RDH scholarship committee. Financial need and potential scholarship impact will be considered for each application.
The scholarship will give preference to those pursuing a dental hygiene degree at two-year institutions.
“We are incredibly proud to join forces with TempMee and reaffirm our unwavering dedication to uplifting minority dental hygiene students. At BrownGirl, RDH, we are passionate about creating opportunities and championing the importance of representation and inclusivity,” said Coke. “By providing financial support and resources to underprivileged dental hygiene students, we are not only empowering individuals but also building a stronger, more diverse workforce that better reflects the communities we serve.”
Applications are now open. To learn more about requirements and read further details, please visit this page.
About TempMee
TempMee is a digital dental staffing marketplace that allows dental offices to contract directly with registered dental hygienists (RDH) and dental assistants to fill single day, short-term, or permanent positions. Launched in 2019 as a response to the growing staffing crisis in the dental industry, the app connects more than 15,000 dental offices with over 45,000 dental professionals. Thus far, the platform has filled over 100,000 shifts, paying over $36 million directly to dental professionals.
Since inception, childhood friends Cary Gahm and Edward Thomas, in collaboration with Deborah Simmons, RDH, have grown the Miami-based business from a bootstrapped startup to an institutional, investor-backed powerhouse with 120+ dedicated team members. In February 2022, TempMee received $4.1 million in venture capital funding for national expansion. For more information, visit https://joingotu.com/.
About BrownGirl, RDH
Our mission is to shift the mindset about who can work in the dental hygiene field, remove cultural and economic barriers to joining the dental hygiene workforce, establish while promoting pathways to dental hygiene careers. We serve as an advocate for Minority Registered Dental Hygienists (RDH) and students, working for a healthier and more diverse climate. Each year BrownGirl, RDH provides mentoring and scholarships to minority dental hygiene students in need to help cover the unexpected costs of dental hygiene school.
