Celebrating Our First Graduates from ANHC’s Dental Assistant Training Program
October 29, 2025
Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center is proud to celebrate a major milestone in Alaska’s workforce development efforts. This month, Ronald Bares and Lindsey Medina became the first graduates of the Department of Labor Dental Assistant Training Program hosted at ANHC.
This program represents a meaningful investment in Alaska’s health care future—providing Alaskans with hands-on, paid training that prepares them for careers in dental care. Through this initiative, ANHC continues its mission to make high-quality, accessible, and affordable health care available to all.
A Program Built on Partnership
The training program was made possible through Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) secured by Sen. Lisa Murkowski in the FY23 Consolidated Appropriations Act. The funding included $500,000 for ANHC to establish a Dental Assistant Training Apprenticeship, helping address Alaska’s health care workforce shortages.
“This incredible support for Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center will create a safer and more energy efficient space for patients and a pathway to train more dental assistants and professionals to provide critical dental care for people in Anchorage and Alaska,” said Lisa Aquino, CEO of ANHC. “We are so grateful to Sen. Murkowski and her office for working to prioritize high-quality, accessible, safe, and effective healthcare for Alaskans.”
ANHC also recognizes the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA) for its role in supporting workforce development programs statewide. Together, these partnerships are creating sustainable pipelines for health professionals while strengthening Alaska’s community health network.
Growing the Next Generation of Dental Professionals
The Department of Labor Dental Assistant Training Program provides structured, hands-on experience in a clinical setting under the mentorship of experienced dental professionals. Participants gain essential technical skills and real-world knowledge that prepare them for long-term success in the field.
For Ronald and Lindsey, completing the program marks both a personal and professional achievement—and a shared commitment to serving the Anchorage community.
Investing in Alaska’s Future
Sen. Murkowski’s CDS supports more than 130 community-driven projects across Alaska—ranging from public safety and infrastructure to education and workforce development. ANHC’s dental training program is one of many efforts making a tangible impact in addressing Alaska’s workforce needs.