Annette Terry, a pediatric dentistry dental assistant for VCU Dental Care, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Hazel Luton Award for Staff Excellence. This prestigious honor recognizes staff members who demonstrate exceptional advocacy for students, a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to the school and its mission.

Annette was nominated by faculty members and selected by the nominating committee to receive this award for her outstanding contributions.

“I feel like I won the Grammys,” Annette said with a laugh. “Thank you to everyone who nominated me. I appreciate it, I feel like my hard work and dedication has truly paid off to be selected for such a wonderful award.”

Annette has worked in the VCU family for more than 20 years, 16 years with the VCU Health system and six years with VCU Dental Care, all as a dental assistant. 

“Annette comes in every day and greets people with an infectious smile,” said Jeff Johnson, D.M.D., M.P.H., Ed.D., interim dean of VCU School of Dentistry. “This well-deserved honor recognizes her dedication, professionalism and the meaningful impact she makes on our school and in our clinics every day. Her support of our learners, faculty and staff strengthens our community and reflects the best of the VCU School of Dentistry. Thank you for everything you do, and congratulations on this remarkable achievement.”

The Hazel Luton Award was established in 2017 by VCU School of Dentistry alumnus John Kitrell, D.D.S. (D.D.S. ’82), in honor of Luton’s retirement after 42 years of dedicated service to the school. Known for her kindness, compassion, and deep connections with students, staff, and faculty, Luton’s legacy of going above and beyond continues to inspire. In 2015, the D.D.S. Class of 1995 and others surprised her by creating an endowed scholarship in her honor during their 20-year reunion. Luton’s passing in 2019 was met with an outpouring of love and remembrance from the school’s alumni.

Annette is now the fourth VCU Dental Care employee to receive the Hazel Luton Award.

As a pediatric dental assistant, Annette helps make each visit as smooth and positive as possible for patients. She supports residents and students during procedures, prepares treatment areas, takes X-rays, and performs a variety of other essential clinical tasks.

Creating a sense of comfort and trust for both children and their caregivers is central to Annette’s approach.

“Patience and kindness really guide everything I do,” said Annette. “Working with young children and their parents or guardians' means meeting people where they are, especially when they’re nervous or upset. I try to create a calm, friendly environment, even down to the tone of my voice, so kids feel safe and parents feel reassured. Building that kind of trust and rapport is so important, and I think leading with empathy and kindness makes all the difference in helping families have a positive experience.”

Elizabeth Bortell, D.D.S., associate professor and director of Special Care Dentistry at VCU School of Dentistry, has worked with Annette for more than 20 years. She says Annette is highly deserving of this recognition. 

“She is not only an extremely competent, reliable, and dedicated assistant; she is a true educator,” said Bortell. “She provides clinical education and guidance while she is assisting students and residents. She serves as a cheerleader for our learners and supports them in making sure that the first time they do a procedure, they feel confident and prepared.”

Annette said she finds the teaching aspect of her work most fulfilling.

“I enjoy working with the residents and dental students, being there to support them and share little tips and tricks along the way. That teaching role brings me a lot of joy,” said Annette. “I also love working with the kids—especially seeing them come in nervous and leave happy after their appointment. It’s really rewarding to watch them grow over time.”

Bortell says Annette is often the first to arrive and the last to leave, and that faculty, students, and residents know it will be a good day when they work with her, thanks to her strong organizational skills, exemplary chairside assisting, and enthusiastic “can-do” attitude.

Annette credits Dr. Bortell for her continued growth, describing her as one of the most influential supporters in her professional journey.

“Dr. Bortell has taught me so much in the dental field, from working with special needs patients to dental assisting and collaborating with residents and faculty,” said Annette. “She’s really helped me grow and continually strive to be the best I can be in my role.”

More photos from award presentation