Bottineau, ND – August 28, 2024 – Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB) proudly announces the opening of Dakota College Downtown with the inaugural program Dental Assisting class. Eight students filled 12 spots in the Dental Assisting program on Monday, August 26. Students are mainly from the Ward County area.

The program, housed in a newly remodeled facility at 120 Burdick Expressway, Minot, is designed with state-of-the-art equipment to prepare students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in dental assisting and hygiene. The Dental Assisting Program has received Initial Accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), affirming its adherence to rigorous standards of excellence in dental education.

Under the guidance of experienced faculty members, students will receive comprehensive training in various aspects of dental assisting, ensuring they are well-prepared for successful careers upon completing the program.

Annie Capener moved to North Dakota from American Fork, Utah. She started working in dentistry as a dental assistant and furthered her education, graduating from Carl Sandburg College Dental Hygiene. She continued her education, earning a bachelor's in dental hygiene from Wichita State University and her master's degree in business administration from Jacksonville University.  Her clinical practice was in periodontal specialty offices treating advanced forms of periodontal disease. Annie started her education journey as an adjunct hygiene instructor moving into a full-time faculty position at the University of Utah School of Dentistry until 2024. Annie is eager to share her combined clinical and educational experiences, graduating highly qualified dental professionals who will contribute to our communities.  

Ricki Hill is a native of Minot where she earned her bachelor’s degree from Minot State University. She has over 20 years of experience in the dental field and continued education in Restorative Functions from the University of Minnesota Dental School. Ricki is ready to share her knowledge and expertise to empower the next generation of dental professionals.

Emily Ternes is a graduate of the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry with a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. She provides online instruction for dental anatomy.

Dr. Mark Hildahl, DDS practiced dentistry in Minot for his entire career, Dr. Hildahl has become a cornerstone of the local dental community. His dedication and expertise were pivotal in establishing this program, and he brings a wealth of practical knowledge and experience to his role as an instructor. He graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.  He worked as a clinician and part-time instructor at the dental school until starting his practice in Minot where he pursued a lifetime practice. Practicing dentistry has always been his passion.

Dr. Marvin Zerr is a native of North Dakota joining the United States Air Force as a dental assistant and retired from the North Dakota Army National Guard as a dentist. After graduating from the Univ of Nebraska College of Dentistry, he began his career as a dentist. Two years as a general dentist were completed in Hazen, ND, before returning to the University of Iowa. After five years of training, a certificate in Endodontics and a PhD in Microbiology were obtained. Since returning to ND, he has spent several years as a clinical Endodontist in Minot and 1 1/2 years teaching at Minot State University.  Dr. Zerr continues his practice in New Town. He is also the Dental Director of the Federally Qualified Health Care Center clinics in Turtle Lake, Minot, and Rolette.

Student applications for fall 2025 are being accepted. Prospective students interested in pursuing a career in dental assisting are encouraged to apply early to secure their spot in this competitive program. For more information about the Dental Programs and to apply, visit www.dakotacollege.edu/dental.