When University of Kentucky College of Dentistry (UKCD) student Myranda Elliott learned she had been selected as the American Student Dental Association’s (ASDA) National Legislative Liaison of the Year, the recognition came as a surprise — and a powerful affirmation of her passion for advocacy.
“I was surprised, thrilled, and so proud,” Elliott said. “I didn’t think I would be able to win a national award in my first time serving in this role, especially as a D2. Advocacy is a passion of mine, and being recognized for my efforts in such a big way is incredible.”
The national award honors outstanding achievement by a chapter legislative liaison in motivating and organizing peers to participate in advocacy efforts. Elliott’s leadership helped elevate advocacy awareness and engagement across UKCD.
As Chapter Legislative Liaison, Elliott serves as a central resource and motivator for student advocacy.
“My role is to educate others about advocacy, drive participation in advocacy efforts on local and national levels, and be the go-to contact for all things advocacy,” she explained.
During Advocacy Month, Elliott organized a series of events designed to make advocacy approachable and engaging for students. Programming included a panel discussion with Kentucky Dental Association leaders, advocacy trivia, student loan snack breaks, and a community service initiative assembling hygiene kits.
Elliott also represented UKCD at American Dental Association and Kentucky Dental Association Lobby Days, advocating for issues such as Medicaid reform and student loan policy.
“I was most proud of being involved in these Lobby Days, advocating alongside my peers and my father, impacting real change in our profession,” she said.
Elliott emphasizes that advocacy is essential for students entering the profession.
“We are both the present and future of dentistry,” she said. “If we don’t advocate for ourselves, someone else, not in our shoes, will make those decisions for us.”
She often shares advice from a mentor: “You either have a seat at the table, or you’re what’s for dinner.”
For Elliott, that message underscores the importance of student voices in shaping policies that will affect their careers and their patients.
Advocacy efforts are especially critical in Kentucky, where access to dental care remains a significant challenge.
“Kentucky faces some of the biggest challenges with dentistry, especially in underserved areas,” Elliott said. She notes high rates of edentulism and dental caries paired with low Medicaid reimbursement rates, which can discourage provider participation and limit access to care.
“Reducing these barriers is essential to improving health equity and outcomes for Kentuckians statewide,” she added.
Elliott encourages fellow students to take the first step toward advocacy involvement.
“Just go for it,” she said. “Every voice matters. There are ways to be involved that can work for anyone — from writing letters to representatives to participating in Lobby Day efforts.”
Looking ahead, she plans to remain active in organized dentistry, pursue leadership roles in her district, and continue engaging in legislative efforts throughout her career.
In addition to Elliott’s national honor, the UK ASDA chapter received the Chapter Advocacy Challenge Award for Districts 6 & 7, recognizing the highest level of student involvement in advocacy during November’s Advocacy Month.
“I’m so proud of how engaged our students were that month to earn this award,” Elliott said.
Through her leadership and commitment to advocacy, Elliott is helping ensure that the voices of dental students are heard — and that the future of oral health care in Kentucky and beyond is shaped by those dedicated to serving their communities.