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Nathalia Garcia, DDS, MS, Assistant Dean for Career Development at SIU School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM), was recently nominated as one of five finalists to receive this year's Esperanza Award. The 2024 Esperanza Awards, hosted by the Hispanic Leaders Group of Greater St. Louis, is a signature event celebrating the achievements and contributions of the vibrant Hispanic community in the St. Louis region. The event this year was held on September 13 at the Missouri Athletic Club in St. Louis.

“The Esperanza Awards is more than just a celebration—it’s a chance to connect, support, and uplift our community. It is an inspiring evening that honors outstanding leaders who have made a significant impact in the St. Louis region,” said Raffi Mikaelian of the Hispanic Leaders Group Board of Directors.

This event amplifies the Hispanic Leaders Group’s ongoing commitment to advocacy, civic engagement, and community throughout the previous year.

Garcia expressed her surprise and honor to be nominated as a finalist for this year’s Esperanza Award. While she did not win the award this year, she shared that the evening was a memorable and moving experience.

“I am incredibly grateful to the Hispanic Leaders Group for nominating me as a finalist for the 2024 Esperanza Award," said Garcia. "It was such an honor to represent the SIU School of Dental Medicine, and this recognition serves as motivation for me to continue fostering the collective efforts needed to create a nurturing, equitable, and inclusive environment in dentistry, oral health academia and higher education.

I am inspired to keep encouraging, mentoring, and supporting the next generation of dental professionals, while advocating for underrepresented groups in our field. The evening was truly memorable and demonstrated the impact that each of us can have in the communities we serve.” 

Saulius Drukteinis, DMD, MS, PhD, Dean of SIU SDM, expressed his appreciation for the hard work and dedication of Garcia at the School, as well as her commitment to the students, residents, faculty and staff at the SIU SDM.

“The SIU School of Dental Medicine is so fortunate to have Dr. Garcia as a member of our leadership team and we are honored that the Hispanic Leaders Group of Greater St. Louis has chosen to recognize her as a finalist for the 2024 Esperanza Award,” said Drukteinis.  “Dr. Garcia is passionate about her work and committed to the success of our students, residents, faculty and staff at SIU SDM. Certainly her pursuits on the national and regional level are also very commendable. She is without question a deserving nominee for this award.”

Garcia has worked locally and nationally to advance the conversation on gender, racial parity and diversity in dentistry and higher education. She was recently promoted to Assistant Dean for Career Development at SIU SDM.

PHOTO:  Esperanza Award nominee Nathalia Garcia, DDS, MS