At Backus Smiles, led by Dr. Dominique Backus in Homewood, Birmingham, AL, we provide comprehensive orthodontic care for patients of all ages. Our mission extends beyond creating beautiful smiles—we develop healthy, functional smiles while considering each patient’s unique needs. What truly sets us apart is our commitment to treating patients like family, offering a warm, welcoming environment with personalized care and fun touches like video games, freshly baked cookies, and patient contests. As a recognized leader in orthodontic care and multi-year recipient of “Homewood’s Best,” we’re dedicated to our community both through exceptional orthodontic services and through initiatives like this scholarship program, which reflects our core values of excellence, compassion, and giving back.
The Backus Smiles Scholarship is a $1,000 annual award designed to support ambitious students pursuing higher education. We seek candidates who demonstrate academic dedication, community involvement, and personal growth—qualities that mirror our practice’s commitment to excellence and compassionate care. The ideal recipient shows leadership potential, a genuine desire to make a positive impact, and the ability to overcome challenges with resilience and determination.
Applicants should submit thoughtful essays reflecting on their educational goals and how this scholarship would advance their academic journey. Backus Smiles established this scholarship as part of our ongoing commitment to nurturing bright futures in our community, recognizing that investing in education creates ripple effects of positive change. The financial award will directly support the recipient’s educational expenses, including tuition, books, and essential academic supplies, helping to ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education.
Important Dates
- Applications are due 4/30/26
- Scholarship winner will be announced in May 2026
Essay Questions
Respond to each of the 3 below questions in 500-1000 handwritten words. Do not exceed 1000 words.
- How has your personal experience with orthodontic care influenced your perspective on health, confidence, or personal growth?
- Describe a challenge you’ve overcome and how it has shaped your educational goals and outlook on life.
- Describe a time when you demonstrated leadership in a way that positively impacted others around you.
Eligibility Criteria
- Students must be enrolled in or accepted to an accredited US college, university, or community college program
- Applicants must show commitment to their community in their essay
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
Required Application Materials
- Current resume
- Essay: 1,000-word maximum
- Current, unofficial transcript
Application Instructions
Scholarship applicants must submit all application materials by email to: scholarship@backusbraces.com
For questions, email the above address, please do not call the office.