Who do you admire?
My family! I would not be where I am at today without their love and support along the way. My parents always encouraged me to set goals, keep pursuing them, and have always been my cheerleaders in life. I am also the youngest of four siblings, so I’ve always looked up to them. Now they have kids of their own that I hope to be a role model for, just like how my siblings were and still are to me.
What do you really enjoy?
In my spare time, I enjoy being outdoors whether it’s boating, water sports, or traveling to national parks and forests for camping and hiking excursions. Closer to home, I love to expand my outdoor garden and home greenhouse of various house plants, succulents, and cacti. My fiancé, Mike, and I also enjoy playing with our pet dog and cat, Rayna and Daario.
What are you most passionate about professionally?
My mission is simply to provide patients the best care possible. My passion is to foster holistic, patient-centered dental health in an anxiety-free atmosphere. With trust and compassion, supported by a team-based practice, and a focus on advancing dental education and technology, I want my patients to have the best possible care.
What are you most passionate about personally?
I love to travel and experience new things that push me to go outside my comfort zone. I always push myself to keep reading, being open to learning, and further educating myself.
Any specific charities you love, and why?
The great thing about living in Omaha is that there are so many non-profits! My most memorable experience during dental school was volunteering for the Adopt-a-School program, where dental students provided oral education and care instruction for Omaha elementary school students. My favorite non-dental related non-profit in Omaha is City Sprouts.
Favorite breakfast food?
I love all things breakfast food—waffles, pancakes, veggie omelettes, bacon, fruit. It is hands-down the best meal of the day.
What did you want to be when you were a kid?
Every year I told my parents I wanted to be something different—orthopedic surgeon, journalist, lawyer, math teacher. I even started a family newspaper for a short while when I was 8, where I would interview my family members, write articles, and print a newspaper.
What guided your interest in dentistry?
Dating back to middle school, I became particularly fascinated with dentistry when I personally reaped the rewards of orthodontic braces. Experiencing first-hand the life-changing benefits of that process, my desire was fueled to focus on dentistry as a profession with its ability to improve lives and wellness.
How do you want to be remembered?
I want to be remembered as a great listener. I try to be a great listener because everyone has a unique story that is just waiting to be heard. I also want patients to remember my gentle touch and to feel comfortable and relaxed around me.
Favorite ice cream flavor?
Ben Jerry’s “The Tonight Dough!”
Favorite movie?
The entire Harry Potter series.
Who is the funniest person you know?
My fiancé, Mike. He never fails to make me laugh every day, no matter what!
What is the wallpaper on your phone?
My adorable golden retriever, Rayna, of course!
