Dental Hygiene hails largest group of male grads

Dental Hygiene students (from left to right): Orlando D. Bellaman, Ty D. Turba, Mikey E. Strohm III, Joshua Quigley and Wangden T. Nangpa

Penn College Magazine Fall 2024, Volume 33, Number 2

Jennifer Cline

by Jennifer Cline

Writer/Magazine Editor

Five students who received their degrees on May 10 make up the largest group of men to graduate from the college’s 45-year-old dental hygiene program. 

Men have been allowed to work in dental hygiene since 1965, but they remain a minority in the profession: About 94% of registered dental hygienists are women. Learn why the men of the Class of 2024 are passionate about their careers:

Orlando D. Bellaman

Orlando D. Bellaman

excelled in his high school’s dental assisting program.


I was awarded student of the year back in 2014, and I knew I was headed in the right direction. What makes me excited is that I am able to meet and speak with a vast array of people and provide oral care. I believe I excel at communicating on a one-on-one basis, and this will be perfect for me.

Ty D. Turba

Ty D. Turba

worked as a dental assistant and wanted to do more.


I am about to embark on a whole new journey into the dental profession. I am thrilled to make a difference in people’s lives, learn new techniques and continue to further my education.

Mikey E. Strohm III

Mikey E. Strohm III

researched dental careers thanks to career interest surveys and became passionate about dental hygiene.


The social aspect is a big factor that drew me to this career, and it still is a big motivator. I would consider myself a social person, and I'm very excited to get to talk to all kinds of different people and get to know them and their experiences.

Joshua Quigley

Joshua Quigley

worked in education while searching for his ideal career.


I knew I wanted to help people; I knew that was why I was put on this earth. I’m excited and really happy to be able to use the tools that have been given to me so that other people can feel better about themselves or feel educated or be healthier.

Wangden T. Nangpa

Wangden T. Nangpa

recognizes that a healthy smile is important for self-esteem.


I’ve always enjoyed just talking to people, taking care of people, helping people out. I don’t like being glued to a desk all the time. I want to be with other people. You get another person to yourself for a whole hour, and that’s exactly what I’m looking for in my profession.

See More Penn College Family Profiles