Blinn Dental Hygiene Program graduates achieve 100% first-attempt pass rate on national certification exam

Blinn graduates enter the workforce prepared for high-demand careers in dental hygiene

September 14, 2026

All 14 graduates of this year’s Blinn College District Dental Hygiene Program passed the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) on their first attempt, highlighting the program’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in dental hygiene.

The achievement reflects the rigorous academic and clinical preparation Blinn students receive throughout the competitive-entry, two-year program.

“Earning a 100% first-attempt pass rate is an incredible accomplishment for our graduates,” said Program Director Lisa Wiese. “Blinn graduates are highly sought after because they enter the workforce prepared to apply their knowledge and clinical skills and provide exceptional patient care.”

The 2026 graduates who passed the NBDHE are:

• Nora Aigberadion – Houston
• Lauren Alesci – The Woodlands
• Kaitlyn Baird – Round Rock
• Jaden Bennett – Iola
• Kirsten Crump – Nacogdoches
• Ashley Hudson – Canyon Lake
• Yolotzin Iriarte – Houston
• Savannah Johnston – Richmond
• Samantha Leggett – Magnolia
• Nathaly Merlos – Houston
• Maria Ortiz – Fort Worth
• Miguelangel Puentes Ponce – College Station
• Victoria Schimank – Giddings
• Danielle Snow – College Station

The Blinn Dental Hygiene Program accepts 14 students each fall semester. Upon successful completion of the two-year program, students earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Dental Hygiene and are eligible to take the NBDHE and a regional or state clinical board examination required for licensure.

In addition to pursuing their degrees, Blinn dental hygiene students host an annual Give Kids a Smile event that provides exams, X-rays, cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, and oral health education to local children without access to regular dental care. Through these events, the program has partnered with local dentists, hygienists, and volunteers to provide more than $300,000 to date in donated dental services to area children.

Dental hygienists are in high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental hygienists earn a median annual salary of $98,100.

For more information about the Dental Hygiene Program, visit www.blinn.edu/dental-hygiene.

About the Blinn College District

With innovative programs and award-winning co-enrollment partnerships, Blinn’s academic transfer rate ranks No. 1 among Texas community colleges. For more information, visit www.blinn.edu.