For nearly five years, Whitney Jones has been at the heart of Austin Community College District’s (ACC) Dental Hygiene Program. She serves as both clinic manager and adjunct faculty. A proud ACC Dental Hygiene graduate herself, Whitney now helps shape the next generation of hygienists through hands-on guidance and everyday problem-solving.
“I was drawn to a career in healthcare because I love caring for and helping others. After my family moved to the Austin area, I was ready to go back to school for a new career. ACC was appealing to me because it was easy to access and affordable.”
She found her place in the Dental Hygiene Program. This move not only launched her career but also brought her back to the College as an instructor and manager.
“The program was the most attractive because of its reputation for excellence and because the job market in the field is very strong right now. I’m a proud ACC Dental Hygiene graduate and was elated to join the department as staff and faculty after working in clinical practice for several years.”
As clinic manager, Whitney oversees one of ACC’s busiest hands-on learning environments. Her work keeps both students and operations running smoothly. This includes fixing a technical issue or offering reassurance to her students during a challenging lesson.
“I love that my job is to help students with any issues that come up in their clinical appointments and practice sessions. Whether it’s computer trouble, equipment malfunctions, finding a needed supply, or a water leak, my job is to jump in and help wherever needed. As adjunct faculty, my favorite aspect is helping a student understand a concept that they have been struggling with in class.”
That supportive spirit extends to the entire Dental Hygiene Department, which has seen major growth this fall.
“Over the last year, the Dental Hygiene Department has undergone a major construction project to expand our clinic from 16 operatories to 32. This enables us to admit more students to help meet the job market demand for hygienists in the Austin area. It also enables us to care for more patients in our community.”
Supporting the community that needs this support most is something Whitney is particularly proud of.
“Our clinic is a great resource for affordable dental hygiene care. We’re one of the only places in Austin that can offer more advanced hygiene treatment at an affordable cost. Patients also receive thorough education on how to care for their teeth and gums and on how their oral health affects their overall health.”
Whitney is also helping students get ready for new advancements and evolving responsibilities for future dental hygienists. This includes recent legislation passed by the State of Texas to allow dental hygienists to be certified to deliver local infiltration anesthesia.
“This year’s graduating class will be the first to graduate with this certification. Our department also has plans to offer a continuing education course to licensed hygienists in the Austin area who would like to earn this certification.”
That focus on innovation and accessibility is what keeps Whitney excited about her work.
“Entrance to the Dental Hygiene program is very competitive. Do well in your prerequisite classes and apply as soon as you’re eligible. Don’t give up! Many of our students have earned entrance after more than one attempt.”
For Whitney, ACC is more than just where she teaches. It’s where her career began and continues to grow.
“ACC is a fantastic place to become a dental hygienist! Our staff work really hard to ensure that students are getting the support they need to succeed.”
For more information on ACC’s Dental Hygiene Program, visit austincc.edu/dentalhygiene.
Whitney will be your first point of contact for affordable care at the ACC Dental Hygiene Clinic at Eastview Campus. Schedule your free screening at austincc.edu/dentalclinic.