Bridgeport Dental Hygienist Honored with 2026 Future of Healthcare Award

The Greater Bridgeport Medical Association (GBMA) has announced that a Bridgeport dental hygienist has been selected to receive a 2026 Future of Healthcare Award, recognizing outstanding healthcare professionals under age 40 who are making a meaningful impact through leadership, innovation, service, and dedication to improving healthcare in the Greater Bridgeport region.

Haydees Valencia, RDH, a Registered Dental Hygienist at Southwest Community Health Center, is being recognized for her exceptional commitment to patient care, oral health education, and improving access to dental services for underserved members of the community.

After graduating from the University of Bridgeport, Haydees began a career dedicated to improving oral health and expanding access to quality dental care. Fluent in Spanish, she helps patients overcome language barriers while providing compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals from all backgrounds.

Haydees was nominated for the award by Kelly Pannone, who praised her unwavering dedication to patients, commitment to oral health education, and the positive influence she has on both her colleagues and the community. In her nomination, Pannone highlighted Haydees' ability to help families overcome barriers to care and her passion for empowering patients through preventive education.

"Haydees Valencia represents the very best of community healthcare," said John Brannelly, Executive Director of the Greater Bridgeport Medical Association. "Her unwavering commitment to serving patients with compassion, educating families about oral health, and improving access to care makes her an outstanding recipient of the Future of Healthcare Award."

Haydees will be honored during the inaugural Future of Healthcare Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Fairchild Wheeler Golf Course in Fairfield. The event will celebrate healthcare professionals who are helping shape the future of medicine and improve the health of communities throughout the Greater Bridgeport region.

All are welcome to purchase tickets to attend the dinner program and help celebrate this year's honorees. Information about tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and the Future of Healthcare Awards is available at GBMedical.org.

The Future of Healthcare Awards recognize exceptional physicians, nurses, advanced practice providers, community health workers, dental professionals, and other healthcare professionals whose leadership and service are making a lasting difference in the communities they serve.