Congratulations to Kathy Geurink, R.D.H., M.A., Health Science Center associate professor of dental hygiene. Because of her various endeavors in the dental hygiene field, she was selected as the Dental Hygiene Distinguished Alumna at the University of Minnesota. She was recognized with an award at the annual Dental Dean’s Reception April 28, 2006.
“I am honored to receive this award,” Geurink said. “It is an award that recognizes many other people, as well, including my family, my colleagues and many friends who have worked with me to make a difference in people’s lives.”
Geurink received both a dental hygienist degree in 1969, and a Bachelor of Science degree in 1971, from the University of Minnesota. A well-respected educator, she is one of only a few dental hygienists nationwide selected as a fellow of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Leadership Institute in 2003. The ADEA Leadership Institute is a yearlong program offered to only the nation’s most promising dental faculty.
Geurink is the author of the widely used textbook Community Oral Health Practice for the Dental Hygienist, 2nd Edition (2005). She has a strong focus on improving the oral health of rural school-based children, understanding the importance of dental sealants and other early prevention techniques. One of her endeavors includes the funding of a Head Start initiative to improve the oral health of 6,000 Head Start children. Geurink is also the coordinator of the Head Start Oral Health Project for the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors and as Region VI Head Start oral health consultant. She often lectures on community oral health at local, state and national meetings.
