First graduating class, outstanding accreditation review highlight IVCC’s Dental Hygiene program’s year

Illinois Valley Community College’s new dental hygiene program was recently granted the highest accreditation status awarded by the national Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The highest, most favorable status indicates the program meets or exceeds all standards, requires no progress reports, and faces no compliance issues. 

“Full accreditation with zero recommendations is an extraordinary accomplishment, especially for a brand-new program,” said IVCC Dean of Health Professions Heather Seghi. “While the process was long and rigorous, I never doubted Lyndsey (Beetz, coordinator of IVCC’s dental health program) would lead this program to success.” 

“We are honestly thrilled!” Beetz said. “A lot of time, care and intention went into building this program, so to have that work recognized right away feels really rewarding. The accreditation review really reinforced that we started on solid ground and set the program up for long-term success.”  

Students enrolled in the program can feel confident knowing a fully accredited program is preparing them well for their future careers, Beetz said.  

The result recognizes the strength of the curriculum, the faculty, the clinical partnerships, and the student experience IVCC has developed, Seghi said. Seghi and Beetz credited faculty members Kora Jones, Deanne Vicic, Heidi Modaff and Jenna Straughn for developing a strong academic and clinical foundation, and the clinical partners, dentists and volunteer dentists who support the students and the program. 

The first graduating class of eight, who were honored at a ceremony in December, also contributed, Seghi added. “Their flexibility, professionalism, and passion helped shape the culture of this program and it was inspiring to watch them grow,” Seghi said. 

Another amazing landmark of the program is that 100% of the inaugural class passed their clinical and written board exams and were hired in the field, Seghi noted. A second class is set to graduate in December 2026. 

Academic dental programs are subject to comprehensive review every seven years, with supplemental reviews annually. 

For more information on the dental assisting or dental hygiene program, visit www.ivcc.edu/dental or contact Beetz at 815-224-0632 or email Lyndsey_Beetz@ivcc.edu, or Seghi at 815-224-0481 or email Heather_Seghi@ivcc.edu.