A Stuart dentist has been announced as one of four recipients in the state to receive an educational loan repayment award.

Dr. Ames Cross of Stuart Family Dental received the award given by the Fulfilling Iowa’s Need for Dentists (FIND) project, led by Delta Dental of Iowa. The program engages dentists to establish dental practices in Iowa counties that are designated as high priority, and to devote at least 35 percent of their practice to underserved populations, such as Medicaid-enrolled, disabled, and elderly persons. Dr. Cross will receive up to $100,000 in loan repayment funds in return for a five-year commitment. This includes $75,000 from Delta Dental of Iowa and the State of Iowa, a community match of at least $5,000 with an option for local organizations to contribute an additional $20,000. Cross purchased Stuart Family Dental in 2017, and several statewide and local partners assisted with his FIND award, including Central Iowa Power Cooperative and Iowa Area Development Group, Stuart Enterprise for Economic Development, Stuart Chamber of Commerce, Stuart Municipal Utilities, and Wagner Investment.