About IKDEF
As the philanthropic and charitable arm of IKDDS, our mission is to improve the oral health of the public we serve by providing a source of funding for access to care and dental education programs throughout northeast Indiana.
History
The Isaac Knapp Dental Education Foundation was established in 1987 to promote educational programs, support dental care research, and enhance dental hygiene in northeast Indiana.
Since its inception, IKDEF has distributed nearly $500,000 to various children’s oral health and community outreach initiatives, free clinics, student scholarships, and continuing education programs.
Leadership
Board of Directors
Dr. Jason Glassley – President
Dr. Steve Regan– Treasurer
Dr. Adrienne Rupright – Secretary
Dr. Andrew Hobbs
Dr. Courtney McGrew
Dr. Alison Mead
Dr. Matthew Kolkman
Dr. Josiah Smith
Dr. Doug Jansen – Ex-officio, IKDDS President
Jamee Lock – Ex-officio, IKDDS Executive Director
Charter Board Members
Dr. Jack H. Boyd
Dr. James E. Dumas
Dr. Edwin C. Errington
Dr. Max E. Fetters
Dr. Charles T. Frissell
Dr. Lloyd J. Hagedorn
Dr. Ralph G. Merkel
Dr. Robert M. Stetzel
Grants
Apply for a grant
Isaac Knapp Dental Education offers one grant cycle annually. The 2026 IKDEF Grant application deadline is MARCH 31, 2026. Click below to apply online.
Applications for consideration must be for organizations who serve individuals located within the Isaac Knapp District.
If your organization would like to request a special consideration, please contact us at ikdef.office@gmail.com for further instructions.
2025 Grant Recipients
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Junior Achievement of Northeast Indiana
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Matthew 25
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McMillen Health
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Neighborhood Health Clinic
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St. Martin’s Healthcare
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Unfailing Love Clinic
Scholarships
The IKDEF Dental Education Scholarship
Each fall, third or fourth year dental students have the opportunity to apply for the IKDEF Scholarship. Learn more about eligibility requirements and apply online by clicking below.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: OCTOBER 31st
Dr. Phillip E. O’Shaughnessy Scholarship
Students in the Dental Assisting, Hygiene, and Lab Tech programs at the IU School of Dentistry in Fort Wayne can apply for the Dr. Phillip E. O’Shaughnessy Scholarship. Click the links below to learn more and apply.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: OCTOBER 31st
The Diane Velpel Community Program
About the program
The Diane Velpel Project was started by the Alliance of Issac Knapp, and then transferred over to IKDEF in 2020 to carry on the project. Local schools and nonprofit organizations who serve lower income families are eligible to apply to receive free toothpaste/toothbrush kits to distribute to these families who may otherwise not receive these basic hygiene tools that promote proper oral care.
Beginning in 2021, The TowneHouse Retirement Community collects donations for the Isaac Knapp Dental Education Foundation’s Diane Velpel Community Program, which was matched by the BHI Foundation. This partnership allowed more toothpaste/toothbrush kits to be distributed to those in need in our community. In 2023, IKDEF received more requests than we could fulfil, so Colgate generously donated product to fill the remaining orders.
In 2026, this program expired and will not renew. Over the 5 years, IKDEF disbursed over $38,000 worth of toothpaste and toothbrush kits to underserved children in our community.
The Annual IKDEF Golf Outing
About the event
Since 1928, dental professionals from IKDDS have been gathering for the annual golf outing and fundraiser to benefit the Isaac Knapp Dental Education Foundation. Golf, drinks, food, and fun, plus raising money for a great cause. Sign up today!
IKDEF Pickleball Clinic/Tournament
About the event
Support the foundation while having a fun evening with your partner and colleagues! Court sponsorships and registrations help to support the Isaac Knapp Dental Education Foundation! Sign up today!
Make a Donation
How to Give
