Miramar Dental

We’re proud to announce a transformative partnership between Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic and Pacific Northwest University (PNWU) to launch a state-of-the-art dental training facility in Kennewick, Washington.

A New Era for Dental Education and Community Care

Opening in June 2026, this 18,111-square-foot facility—one of only three in the state—will serve as a cornerstone of PNWU’s newly established School of Dental Medicine. Located at Miramar Health Center, the center will provide immersive, hands-on clinical training for dental students under the guidance of expert faculty.

But this facility is more than just a place to learn—it’s a commitment to equity, access, and service.

“By giving students early and immersive clinical experiences and preparing them to serve where they are most needed, we are building a stronger, more equitable future for health care in our region.”
— Dr. Fotinos Panagakos, DMD, PhD
Dean, School of Dental Medicine, PNWU

Addressing a Critical Need

Eastern Washington faces a growing shortage of dental professionals. This facility is designed to help close that gap by training the next generation of dentists who are passionate about serving rural and underserved communities.

Through a “recruit, educate, and return” model, PNWU seeks out students from these communities—those who understand the challenges firsthand—and prepares them to return as skilled, compassionate providers.

Our Shared Vision

This partnership reflects a shared mission: to integrate oral and systemic health, promote academic excellence, and foster interprofessional collaboration. Together, we’re not just building a facility—we’re building a future where everyone has access to the care they deserve.