January 30, 2026
The TSC Foundation honored individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact in oral healthcare during the Heroes in Healthcare: Golden Mirror Awards celebration last night. The event recognized professionals whose dedication to patient care, mentorship, education, and community service continues to shape the future of dentistry across the region and state.
The celebration marked a milestone moment for the College, highlighting decades of partnership between Tallahassee State College and the dental community while showcasing professionals who exemplify the values at the heart of TSC’s dental programs.
The awards recognize outstanding alumni and community partners across seven categories: Clinical Excellence, Community Impact, Rising Star, Mentor of the Year, Distinguished Service, Institutional Impact, and Legacy, each honoring unique contributions to advancing dental education, patient care, and community well-being.
Clinical Excellence Award, honoring dental practices that consistently support and mentor TSC dental hygiene students while providing exceptional patient care and instruction. This year’s honorees include:
- Dr. William Baldock, Sr. & Dr. William Baldock, Jr. – For decades, the Baldock name has been synonymous with clinical excellence, leadership, and innovation in periodontal care.
- Dr. Brion T. Long, SmileWorks Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics – Nationally recognized for clinical excellence and compassionate care, this leader has helped shape the future of pediatric and orthodontic dentistry.
- Dr. Matthew Rasmussen, Periodontics and Implant Dentistry of Tallahassee – Combining clinical excellence with an unwavering dedication to service, this Tallahassee periodontist has made a lasting impact both locally and statewide.
- Dr. Joseph Rodriguez, SmileWorks – Transforming smiles and the confidence behind them is at the heart of this orthodontist’s work.
Community Impact Award, recognizing dental hygienists who extend their service beyond the operatory, advancing access, education, and equity in oral healthcare. Honorees include:
- Jordyn Crumpler, Red Hills Oral & Facial Surgery – Service beyond the operatory defines the work of this community-minded dental hygienist.
- Madison Dobbs, FIC Dentistry – A commitment to comfort, access, and compassionate care guides this dental professional’s work.
- Judith McGehee, Periodontal Associates of North Florida – Creating a welcoming and supportive environment is central to this dental professional’s approach to care.
Mentor of the Year Award, honoring hygienists who provide guidance, encouragement, and professional leadership to emerging dental professionals. Recipients include:
- Hannah Fletcher, The Office of Dr. Richard J.P. Bastien – Guidance rooted in compassion and experience has defined this hygienist’s approach to mentorship.
- Heather Pryor, Boyd & Walther Dental Associates – A career defined by experience, encouragement, and professional generosity has made this hygienist a trusted mentor.
Rising Star Award, celebrating early-career dental hygienists showing exceptional promise, leadership potential, and commitment to growth. This year’s winners are:
- Cody Prebble, Periodontics and Implant Dentistry of Tallahassee – Professionalism, reliability, and patient-centered care define this emerging dental hygienist’s work.
- Nicole Vracar, Redemption Orthodontics – A passion for service, leadership, and lifelong learning has shaped this early-career dental hygienist’s path.
Distinguished Service Award, recognizing individuals whose lifetime contributions have strengthened dental education, access to care, and professional leadership. The honorees are:
- Nancy McKissock – A lifetime of dedication to dental education has shaped generations of students and strengthened programs across the region.
- Dr. Russ Rainey – Clinical excellence paired with deep community service has defined this distinguished dental career.
- Ginny Wagner Marsters, CDA, CRDH, MS – Decades of clinical practice, teaching, and leadership have left a lasting mark on dental education in North Florida.
Institutional Impact Award, recognizing organizations whose sustained partnerships and leadership have strengthened dental education and expanded access to care. Honorees include:
- Florida Dental Association – Statewide leadership and sustained partnership have strengthened dental education for generations of students.
- The Molar Express – Expanding access to care while educating future professionals defines the mission of this mobile outreach partner.
- Periodontal Associates of North Florida – Clinical excellence paired with educational partnership has made a lasting institutional impact.
Legacy Award, representing the highest honor of the evening, recognizing individuals whose lifelong dedication has left an enduring imprint on the dental profession, Tallahassee State College’s programs, and the broader community. Honorees include:
- Dr. John Bidwell – A career rooted in service, education, and public health has left a lasting mark on dental education and community care.
- Cindy Biron – Visionary leadership in education has elevated dental hygiene instruction nationwide.
- Michele Edwards – Generations of students and educators have been shaped by a lifetime devoted to dental education and mentorship.