Dr. Katherine Velasco is a Colombian-born dental professional with over 25 years of experience in clinical practice, education, and leadership. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree

in 1998 and spent a decade in private practice, including three years serving underprivileged communities.

Her passion for dentistry led her to join Roseman University School of Dental Medicine, where she instructed more than 900 students and was recognized as Outstanding Faculty and HDA Faculty of the Year.

Currently, Dr. Velasco works as an Assistant Professor and Clinical Team Leader in the International Dental Graduated Program at Nova Southeastern University. In addition to her mentoring and clinical responsibilities, she serves in the Student Progress Committee and continues to practice dentistry one day a week.

Dr. Velasco is a distinguished fellow of the International College of Dentists (ICD), American College of Dentists (ACD), and Pierre Fauchard Academy (PFA). She remains as an active leader in organized dentistry through her involvement with the Hispanic Dental Association, American Dental Association, and American Dental Education Association, where she has held leadership roles at institutional, state, and national levels.

Her professional achievements have also been recognized in the bibliographical compendium of Who’s Who in America for her contributions to dental education and the advancement of the profession.

Beyond her professional life, Dr. Velasco finds her greatest fulfillment in seeing others grow and succeed with her guidance. She values balance in work and family life and enjoys spending time at the beach, hiking, painting, engaging in creative projects, and exploring new places.

Dr. Hanan Omar is a Professor and the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Research at A.T. Still University’s Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-MOSDOH). She also serves as the Assistant Dean for Research and Course Director for Professionalism, Ethical Practice, and Behavioral Sciences.

With over two decades of experience in dental education and leadership, Dr. Omar has held multiple senior academic roles, including Associate Dean, Faculty of Dentistry at the International Medical University (IMU) in Malaysia. Her expertise spans curriculum design, educational innovation, evidence-based dentistry (EBD), and technology-enhanced learning, with a strong focus on integrating AI, VR, and digital tools into preclinical and clinical education.

Dr. Omar has authored and co-authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications, several book chapters, and numerous conference presentations through ADEA, AADOCR/IADR, SEAADE, and AMEE. Her research explores AI-supported learning, virtual simulation, and case-based education models. An active leader in professional organizations, Dr. Omar serves as Councilor for the Evidence-Based Dentistry Section of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) and as a reviewer for the Journal of Dental Education. Dr. Omar’s work exemplifies a commitment to advancing whole-person, technology-driven, and evidence-based dental education that prepares future clinicians for excellence in patient-centered care.

Lina Sharab, DDS,MS,MSc. Associate Professor and the Director of the Craniofacial-Biology-Externship Program at the University of Kentucky. Earned D.D.S. from Syria. completed a Master of Biomaterial Science and fellowship in Orthodontics/SUNY at Buffalo. Earned a Master of Science, and certificate in orthodontics from the University of Kentucky. Dr. Sharab is a recipient of multiple awards from major organizations including :AAO,AAOF,SAO,

AAL, ADEA, and UK. Practicing board-certified orthodontist, dental educator and clinical researcher. She is currently a fellow of the leadership institute.  Her research was published in prestigious journals, including the Journal of Dental-Education, the American-Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial-Orthopedics, Orthodontic Craniofacial Research, and Journal of Oral Implantology. is an invited speaker at national and international conferences.

Dr. Harrison, a native of Belleville, IL, is a general dentist and Assistant Professor at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, where she currently serves as Interim Chair of the Department of Endodontics.

She earned her B.S. in Chemistry from Tennessee State University in 2011 and began dental school at Meharry Medical College in 2012, graduating in 2016. During dental school, Dr. Harrison was active in leadership and service roles and received several honors and scholarships, including Who’s Who Among Students, the Dental Public Health Award, and multiple endowed scholarships.

Following graduation, Dr. Harrison completed a two-year General Practice Residency at BronxCare Hospital in New York, serving as Chief Resident in her second year. It was during this time that she developed a strong interest in endodontics, which became her area of focus.

She actively participates in professional development and continuing education through organizations such as the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), American Association of Endodontists, and the Chicago Dental Society. In recognition of her leadership, she was named a 2023 Dean’s Scholar and selected as a 2025 Fellow of the ADEA Leadership Institute. She is also pursuing a Master of Public Health with a dental emphasis at A.T. Still University.

Dr. Harrison has further honed her academic leadership skills through programs such as the ADEA’s Institute for Teaching and Learning and the Chairs and Academic Administrators Management Program.

Passionate about community service, Dr. Harrison participates in events like Spring and Fall Oral Health Days and Give Kids a Smile. She has also created outreach programs including “Dental Day at Daycare” and “Healthy Me, Healthy Smiles.” Mentorship is a key focus, and she remains closely involved in the growth of her mentees throughout and beyond dental school.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Harrison enjoys spending time with her son, Peyton, event planning, fishing, attending sports and music events, and online shopping.

Dr. Ana Cristina Andrada is an Associate Professor and Director of Predoctoral Endodontics at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. She earned her dental degree and Endodontics certificate from the Federal University of Santa Catarina in Brazil, followed by advanced training at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, where she received a certificate in Endodontics and a Doctor of Medical Sciences in Oral Biology. She later earned her U.S. DDS from the University of Detroit Mercy.

A Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics since 2019, Dr. Andrada has published in peer-reviewed journals, contributing meaningful research to the fields of endodontics and dental education. Her dedication to scholarship and teaching was recognized by the American Association of Endodontists through the prestigious Educator Fellowship Award, which highlights the vital role of educators in shaping the future of the specialty. She is actively involved in the AAE, ADEA—serving on the Council of Faculties since 2022—and the Hispanic Dental Association, reflecting her strong commitment to advancing dental education and the endodontic profession.

Dr. Beatriz Bezerra is a Clinical Associate Professor and Predoctoral Director in the Section of Periodontics at the UCLA School of Dentistry (SOD). She also co-directs the Preceptorship Program in Periodontics at UCLA SOD. Dr. Bezerra received her DDS and PhD from Brazil. She earned her certificate in Periodontics and Implant Dentistry from the Eastman Institute for Oral Health at the University of Rochester and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Bezerra was the recipient of the 2023 Bud and Linda Tarrson Fellowship and was also recognized by her peers and nominated for the American College of Dentists. Dr. Bezerra currently serves as the chair for both the ADEA Section of Periodontics and the AAP Education Committee.  Her current responsibilities include curriculum development for the section of Periodontics, evaluation of students’ clinical progress in Periodontics, as well as clinical teaching at the predoctoral and post-doctoral levels. She also serves as the faculty advisor for the Periodontics Study Club.

Dr. Esther Ovuworie Kuyinu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics, and Director of Predoctoral Prosthodontics Clinic at The University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, School of Dentistry, Houston, TX (UTSD). She is an educator and leader with over two decades of experience in academic dentistry and clinical practice. She leads numerous outreach and mentoring initiatives, locally and globally. Dr. Kuyinu earned her B.D.S from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, followed by postgraduate training in London, England and a Master of Science in Prosthodontics from Georgetown University, Washington, DC. She later completed her D.D.S. at New York University College of Dentistry, where she held multiple faculty roles and maintained a private practice in New Jersey.  Her professional service includes leadership roles in the American College of Prosthodontics, the American Dental Education Association, and the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas. She has received numerous honors, including Lifetime Achievement Awards, the UTSD Dean’s Excellence Awards for Teaching, and also Clinical Service. In recognition for her global outreach efforts, she was recently inducted as a fellow in the International College of Dentists.

Dr. Sivaraman Prakasam is Philip A. Lainson endowed Associate Professor in Periodontics and Chair of the department of Periodontics at the college of Dentistry at the University of Iowa. Dr. Prakasam holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from The T.N. Dr. M.G.R Medical University, India; a PhD in Oral Biology and Pathology from the State University of New York, Stony Brook; a Master of Science in Dentistry degree and a certificate in Periodontology from the Indiana University. Dr. Prakasam is a Diplomate of American Board of Periodontology and has been in full-time academics for 15 years, serving on the faculty at Indiana University and Oregon Health & Science University. He is a past recipient of the Balint Orban Award from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and finalist at the IADR Hatton competition. Other honors include AAP foundation teaching fellowship and AAP Outstanding Teaching and Mentoring Award. His educational portfolio includes all levels of dental education and has directed several courses. He has mentored 20 students in research projects including twelve master’s theses. He is a clinical-translational researcher and has been funded by the National Institutes of Health and several private industries and foundations. He has published over 40 journal articles and conference abstracts.

Theresia Laksmana earned her DMD from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, followed by a Certificate in Advanced Periodontology and a Masters of Science in Craniofacial Biology from the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC. A Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, she has extensive clinical expertise in periodontal regeneration, implant therapy, and peri-implant disease management which she exercises in private periodontal practice in Los Angeles. Theresia Laksmana’s research focuses on periodontal regeneration, implant therapy, and management of peri-implant diseases, with publications in leading peer-reviewed journals. She is active in professional service through the American Academy of Periodontology, the American Dental Education Association, and multiple committees at USC. 

Dr. Ana Ospina graduated from the University of Antioquia in Colombia, where she completed her DDS and a postgraduate certificate in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. She went on to earn a Master of Public Health and a certificate in Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) with an emphasis in Special Needs Dentistry from Nova Southeastern University, where she also earned an additional DDS degree. She is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration at NSU. Dr. Ospina has served as Predoctoral Director in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at NSU, where she continues to lecture and lead hands-on workshops nationally and internationally on anesthesia and oral surgery. She is a Fellow of the International College of Dentists (ICD), the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), and the Florida Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (FSOMS). Alongside her academic role, Dr. Ospina maintains a private practice limited to oral surgery.

Dr. Stephanie Munz earned her DDS from the University of Michigan in 2011, followed by a General Practice Residency (GPR) at the University of Michigan Health System in 2012. She joined the Michigan faculty the same year, serving as GPR Program Director from 2014–2023. Since 2019, she has served as Associate Chair of Hospital Dentistry, was appointed as the Walter H. Swartz Professor of Integrated Special Care Dentistry, and in 2020 became Chief of Hospital Dentistry. Dr. Munz served as President of the Special Care Dentistry Association (2021–2022) and currently contributes to clinical teaching in Hospital Dentistry and the Integrated Special Care Clinic. Her clinical interests include implant and prosthetic rehabilitation for patients with head and neck cancer, as well as dental care for individuals with cleft lip/palate, craniofacial anomalies, and complex medical conditions. Her research focuses on oral disease factors contributing to infective endocarditis, prosthetic effects on oral health–related quality of life, and interprofessional education to advance collaborative patient care.

Dr. Luiz A. Pimenta is a faculty member in the Division of Prosthodontics at the College of Dental Medicine at Columbia University in New York. His academic career spans prosthodontics, restorative dentistry, dental materials, and craniofacial sciences, and he has guided the research and professional development of 20 master’s students and 13 PhD students across these areas.

He has delivered lectures and conducted continuing education programs nationally and internationally and has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed publications, as well as several textbook chapters. His scholarly work has contributed to emerging directions in digital dentistry, esthetic and implant-supported rehabilitation, and the care of individuals with craniofacial
conditions.

Dr. Pimenta’s clinical and research interests include dental materials, digital and conventional prosthodontics, and craniofacial anomalies. At Columbia, he supervises clinical care and resident training in the postgraduate prosthodontics clinic, integrating research, teaching, and hands-on education to advance evidence-based practice and the adoption of new technologies.

He is an active member of the International Association for Dental Research, the American Dental Education Association, the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association, the American College of Prosthodontists, and the Greater New York Academy of Prosthodontics. He also contributes to the profession as a reviewer and editorial board member for several scientific journals.

Dr. Pimenta’s academic background, clinical expertise, administrative experience, and longstanding commitment to education, mentorship, and program development align closely with the mission of the ADEA Leadership Institute and reflect his dedication to advancing dental education and supporting the next generation of oral health professionals.

Dr. Donald Lapine graduated in 1997 from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (now Rutgers School of Dental Medicine). He completed a General Practice Residency at Overlook Hospital in Summit, NJ, and practiced in Bayonne, NJ, for many years before transitioning to academia through RSDM’s “From Practice to Preceptor” Program in 2014. He has served on the faculty of the Department of Restorative Dentistry for nine years and became a full-time Assistant Professor in 2021. Dr. Lapine’s research interests include cariology, pedagogy, and faculty calibration. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American College of Dentists, and the International College of Dentists. Active in organized dentistry, he serves as Secretary/Treasurer of the Passaic County Dental Component Society and has chaired the ADEA Section on Cariology. He has lectured nationally on restorative dentistry and is the course director for multiple preclinical and clinical courses at RSDM. He has received numerous teaching awards, including the RSDM Excellence in Teaching Award (2019), and has been repeatedly selected as hooder for graduating classes. He currently serves as President of the Omega Omega Chapter of Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society and as President of the RSDM Alumni Association.  Dr. Lapine is the Director of Operative Dentistry within the Department of Restorative Dentistry.  

Dr. Tumouh Al-Allaq is the NYU Langone Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Residency Program Site Director, the Associate Clinical Dental Director, Preceptorship Program Director, the Continuing Education Director, and Clinical Committee Chair at Choptank Community Health Systems on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. She earned her dental degree from Baghdad University, Iraq.

Dr. Al-Allaq completed a two-year postdoctoral Fellowship in Geriatric Dentistry at the University of California Los Angeles, (UCLA), California, West LA Hospital and Nursing Homes.

She then obtained a two-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) certificate at the University of Rochester Medical Center-Eastman Institute for Oral Health, Rochester, New York. 

After obtaining her AEGD certificate, Dr. Al-Allaq pursued a two-year General Practice Residency (GPR) certificate from the University of Rochester-Strong Hospital, Rochester, New York.

Dr. Al-Allaq's academic career started at the University of Southern California, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry (USC) as Preclinical Assistant Professor in the departments of Prosthodontics and Oral Health and Prevention. She worked as a Problem Based (PBL) certified instructor at USC. She continued her academic career at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) as the Geriatric Dental Fellow at Harbor View and West Los Angeles VA hospital. At the same time, Dr. Al-Allaq was appointed as Clinical Instructor at the Oral Diagnosis Clinic at UCLA.

Dr. Al-Allaq started with the NYU Langone Dental Medicine as the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Site Director of Maryland in 2017 until the present time. She is the Director of Preceptorship (International Dentist) program and the Director of the Continuing Education Department at Choptank Community Health Systems. Dr. Al-Allaq  also hold the position as the Clinical Committee Chair at Choptank Community Clinics.  Her research interest focuses on geriatric and Special Care dentistry which contributes to her line of expertise.  Dr. Al-Allaq diverse academic and clinical background makes her a well rounded clinician and educator.

Dr. Caudill is an Associate Professor, Interim Chair of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, and Director of Predoctoral Pediatric Dentistry at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. Her current responsibilities include overseeing predoctoral dental students’ clinical and didactic pediatric dental education, with a focus on updating the curriculum to include active learning strategies and best practices for adult learning. Dr. Caudill received her D.D.S. from West Virginia University School of Dentistry and completed her Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. She worked in private practice for several years before completing her Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry at NYU Langone Hospital in Rhode Island and transitioning to a career in academics.

Dr. Caudill is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She recently received her M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with a Leadership Studies concentration from Virginia Commonwealth University. Her awards include the Dean’s Faculty Excellence Award for Didactic Teaching and the Richard C. Pugh Achievement Award. She has co-authored several peer-reviewed papers including “Pediatric dentists’ and guardians’ perceptions of follow-up appointments after dental rehabilitation under general anesthesia.” In addition, she has served as a mentor in multiple roles including as a thesis advisor for pediatric dental residents and as an ADEA Academic Dental Careers Faculty Fellowship mentor for dental students. She is an active member of several organizations including ADEA, the American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. 

Dr. Emecen-Huja is an associate professor and the program director of the Master of Science in Dentistry program at the Medical University of South Carolina, College of Dental Medicine. As the Master of Science in Dentistry program director, she oversees the academic training and research progress of the master’s degree students enrolled in Digital Dentistry, Endodontics, Orthodontics and Periodontics programs.

She is responsible for curriculum development and management, course administration, course evaluations and program outcomes, academic guidelines and accreditation preparation, academic performance, ethics and professionalism of postgraduate residents.

Dr. Emecen-Huja is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology (AAP). She served nationally as an ADEA Periodontics section officer and continues to serve on AAP and Southern Academy of Periodontology research committees.   She received her dental and Ph.D. training at Hacettepe University in Turkey. She received two Periodontology certificates (from Hacettepe University and Ohio State University) and an M.S. degree from Ohio State University. She has presented at national and international meetings and has published in peer-reviewed journals on environmental factors and periodontitis, dental implants, periodontal inflammation, and wound healing. 

Dr. Papathanasiou holds the position of Professor and Chair of the Comprehensive Care Department at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM). Her previous roles include serving as the Postgraduate Director of the Advanced Education in Esthetic and Operative Dentistry Program at TUSDM. She is an active researcher with numerous publications in peer-reviewed dental journals and is a recognized speaker, delivering lectures and hands-on workshops on esthetic and restorative dentistry both nationally and internationally. She is a Fellow of both the International College of Dentists (ICD) and the International Academy for Dental and Facial Esthetics (IADFE).

A graduate of the University of Athens Dental School in Greece, Dr. Papathanasiou completed her postgraduate training in Operative Dentistry, Endodontics, and Cariology at Aarhus University Royal Dental College in Denmark. She then received Advanced Education in Esthetic Dentistry at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM), where she also earned her DMD. Additionally, she recently obtained an Executive Master of Business Administration.

Dr. Papathanasiou is a member of the Editorial Review Board for several dental journals, serves as the University Member on the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Board of Directors, and chairs the University Relations Committee. She has also maintained a private practice specializing in Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry in Athens, Greece, and currently practices part-time in Boston, Massachusetts.

Dr. Qian Xie is a board-certified endodontist with advanced clinical and academic training in both China and the United States. She earned her B.D.S., M.S. and Ph.D. in Oral Science from Sichuan University’s West China College of Stomatology and completed her Endodontics Certificate at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). She is a licensed specialist in Illinois and has been a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics since 2014, recertified in 2024.

Dr. Xie served as a Board Director (District IV) for the American Association of Endodontists (2022–2025) and current serve on board of the Edgar D. Coolidge Endodontic Study Club. She has chaired sessions at international conferences, including the IADR General Session and the International Conference on Novel Anticaries and Remineralizing Agents. A committed scholar, she has reviewed over 30 manuscripts for leading journals such as the Journal of Endodontics and Journal of Dental Research.

She is an active member of multiple professional organizations, including the AAE, ADA, CDS, and the International College of Dentists. Dr. Xie’s career reflects a strong commitment to clinical excellence, education, and advancing the field of endodontics.

Dr. Xie has a broad background in oral science and clinical dentistry, with specific training and expertise in oral microbiology research and clinic experience in endodontics. Her research background includes caries research, oral biofilm and endodontic irrigation.

Dr. Barnes is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry (ULSD). She received her doctorate in dental medicine at Nova Southeastern University and her certificate in oral and maxillofacial surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Barnes completed a fellowship in Pediatric Cleft and Craniofacial Surgery at Charleston Area Medical Center. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

 She is the Chief of Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Norton Children's Hospital, where she also serves on the Performance Improvement and Patient Safety Committee. Dr. Barnes serves on several local, as well as national, committees, such as the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association Membership Committee. She lectures at the local, regional and national level on a variety of topics pertaining to oral and maxillofacial surgery. In her four years in academia, she has published several book chapters and articles and mentored dental students and residents in their research endeavors. In 2023, Dr. Barnes was nominated for the “Faculty Favorites Award” at the University of Louisville by dental students and residents signifying the difference she made in their educational experience.

Dr. Diana Nguyen is a Health Sciences Associate Clinical Professor and Chief of the Division of Clinical General Dentistry at the UCSF School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California. After graduating from Columbia University and receiving her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from NYU College of Dentistry, Dr. Nguyen completed a General Practice Residency at Yale.

After many years of working as a general dentist in San Diego, she became a full-time clinical educator at UCSF where she has served as a Clinical Coach, Group Practice Leader, Course Director, Admissions Interviewer, and Faculty Advisor to the UCSF student chapter of the California Dental Association. In 2024, Dr. Nguyen received the Gies Award for Junior Faculty from ADEA and the ADEAGies Foundation in recognition of her outstanding achievements in oral health education. She is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists, and Pierre Fauchard Academy, as well as a published author and researcher who has been quoted in the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and The New York Times. Dr. Nguyen currently serves on the Board of Directors for the San Francisco Dental Society and is a Faculty Ambassador to the American Dental Association. She is a champion for women in the health professions and leadership and believes that no learner should ever be made to feel unworthy of their dreams.

Dr. Maria Gonzalez is an Associate Professor and Program Director of the Advanced Education Program in Prosthodontics in the Department of Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics at the University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston.

A diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics, Dr. Gonzalez earned her dental degree from Universidad Veracruzana in Veracruz, Mexico, in 1996. Following two years in private practice, she completed a preceptorship in prosthodontics at UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry. She went on to earn a Master of Science degree in Prosthodontics in 2002 after completing a residency at UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry.

Dr. Gonzalez joined the faculty at the School of Dentistry in 2002. She is a four-time recipient of the Dean’s Teaching Excellence Award (2003, 2005, 2006, and 2019) and was elected in 2009 to the Mu Mu Chapter of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society.

Actively involved in organized dentistry, Dr. Gonzalez has served on numerous local, state, and national committees and has held leadership roles throughout her career. She has also contributed to both predoctoral and postdoctoral education committees within the American College of Prosthodontists (ACP).

Her clinical interests include complete dentures, fixed prosthodontics, and implant prosthodontics.

Jennifer Cullen is a Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of the Division of Dental Hygiene at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. She lectures in and directs several didactic and clinical courses in the undergraduate, degree completion and graduate DH programs. She regularly provides professional development for faculty on equity-focused teaching practices, online teaching and learning and leadership development. Prior to being division director, she was director of the U-M DH Degree Completion Program for eight years.  Her professional and research interests include online education, special patients, behavioral-oral health connection and strengths-based leadership. She is a member of the American Dental Hygienists' Association and the American Dental Education Association.

Theodore Ravenel, DMD is an Associate Professor at The Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University. He received his DMD followed by a General Practice Residency from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. He obtained a certificate in Endodontics from the University of Maryland. He was in private practice in the upstate of SC for 13 years before transitioning back to the Medical University to serve as Endodontics Residency Director and eventually Division Chief. He joined the Dental College of Georgia in July of 2024 and now serves as the Predoctoral Endodontic Program Director. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics and a Fellow in the American College of Dentists, Academy of General Dentistry, and Pierre Fauchard Academy.

Blase Brown, D.D.S., M.S., a graduate of Loyola University Chicago, served in the Commissioned Corps of the USPHS and managed two private general dental practices for thirty-five years. As Director of Small Group Facilitation at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, Dr. Brown works with teams of faculty to create innovations in student learning and in the development of campus-wide Interprofessional Education (IPE). As a general dentist, his areas of interest and activity lie in both oral medicine and treating and advocating for individuals with Down Syndrome.

Dr. Antanious White is an educator, researcher and ADEA Senior Director of Student Engagement and Success with over a decade of experience advancing equity and inclusion in education and professional organizations. As a scholar, his work explores the intersectionality of race, gender and place-based identities, examining their impact on educational outcomes and health disparities while highlighting pathways of resilience.

Committed to advancing DEI, Dr. White has led innovative initiatives aimed at dismantling systemic barriers and promoting social justice in education. His teaching philosophy emphasizes racial equity, critical thinking and collaboration, fostering an inclusive classroom environment where students are encouraged to engage deeply with complex social issues.

Dr. White continues at ADEA to lead transformative efforts that advance diversity and inclusion in higher education. With a collaborative and solutions-driven approach, he is dedicated to uplifting marginalized communities and inspiring systemic change through education, research and DEI leadership.

Dr. Emilia Istrate manages American Dental Education Association (ADEA)’s research team and conducts oral health public policy research, oral health workforce research and institutional research in academic dentistry. She manages the ADEA Data Portal, a series of interactive dashboards that allow ADEA members to benchmark their program and access insights into trends in U.S. oral health education programs. Dr. Istrate has published numerous journal articles, reports and other publications focused on helping ADEA’s members in their evidence-based decision-making.

Sophia Alam is the Program Manager for Faculty Engagement and Success at the American Dental Education Association (ADEA). In this role, Sophia supports ADEA initiatives that enhance belonging and uphold an inclusive, equitable culture in academic dentistry.

Sophia holds a Master of Public Health in Community Health from Baylor University and a B.I.S. in Healthcare Management from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is passionate about advancing health equity, strengthening professional pipelines, and creating learning environments where people and organizations can thrive.

Dr. Duong received her Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) and Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) from A.T. Still University Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-ASDOH). She serves as a full-time Associate Professor and Director of Special Care Dentistry in The Center for Advanced Oral Health at ATSU-ASDOH. She works to support students, residents, and faculty treating individuals with special needs and complex medical conditions. She also works as a part-time associate dentist at Sundance Dental Care.  

She completed a certificate in Advanced Education in General Dentistry from NYU Langone Medical Center in 2013. This program evolved her clinical skills to include CADCAM, sedation dentistry and advanced periodontal/oral surgery.  

She completed a Master of Education (M.A.Ed.) with a dental emphasis from the University of the Pacific in 2016. Her many accomplishments and contributions to the dental profession haves earned her recognition as a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD), Fellowship in the Special Care Dentistry Association (FSCD), Fellowship in the American College of Dentists (FACD), Fellowship in the International College of Dentists (FICD), and Fellowship in the Pierre Fauchard Academy (PFA).  

Ethel Harris, D.D.S, M.P.H., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine and Restorative Dentistry at the Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, where she serves as the Director of Integrated Oral Health Services at the Meharry Community Wellness Center.  Her funded research focuses on periodontal disease and HIV.  She has served on the executive board for the ADEA Section on Minority Affairs, Diversity and Inclusion, along with membership to various other sections, and as an Enid Neidle Scholar.  At the Meharry Medical College, she teaches Dental Anatomy and Occlusion, Introduction to Operative Dentistry and Dental Auxiliary Utilization, serves on the admissions committee and is a Meharry School of Dentistry Deans’ Scholar.  Dr. Harris completed her undergraduate studies (BS) at the Tennessee State University, her graduate studies (MPH) at the A. T. Still University and received his dental degree from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry where after several years in private practice, she returned to her alma mater as faculty full time.

Rex Okonkwo is from Prince George’s County, Maryland, and earned his B.A. in Biological Sciences with a minor in Political Science from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). He is currently a third-year dental student at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, where he is building his clinical skills and preparing for a career focused on compassionate, community-centered care. Within ADEA, he has held multiple leadership positions at both the school chapter and national level, and he currently serves as the student representative for ADEA’s Annual Session Planning Committee.

Dr. Shiv Patel is a first-year endodontic resident at the University of Pittsburgh. She currently serves as the Member-at-Large for the Council of Students, Residents, and Fellows (COSRF), representing resident voices within ADEA. In this role, she supports initiatives focused on education, leadership development, and national collaboration. Dr. Patel is passionate about shaping the future of endodontics and engaging with colleagues who share that commitment.

Dr. Katherine Velasco is a Colombian-born dental professional with over 25 years of experience in clinical practice, education, and leadership. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1998 and spent a decade in private practice, including three years serving underprivileged communities.

Her passion for dentistry led her to join Roseman University School of Dental Medicine, where she instructed more than 900 students and was recognized as Outstanding Faculty and HDA Faculty of the Year. 

Currently, Dr. Velasco works as an Assistant Professor and Clinical Team Leader in the International Dental Graduated Program at Nova Southeastern University. In addition to her mentoring and clinical responsibilities, she serves in the Student Progress Committee and continues to practice dentistry one day a week.

Dr. Velasco is a distinguished fellow of the International College of Dentists (ICD), American College of Dentists (ACD), and Pierre Fauchard Academy (PFA). She remains as an active leader in organized dentistry through her involvement with the Hispanic Dental Association, American Dental Association, and American Dental Education Association, where she has held leadership roles at institutional, state, and national levels. Her professional achievements have also been recognized in the bibliographical compendium of Who’s Who in America for her contributions to dental education and the advancement of the profession.

Beyond her professional life, Dr. Velasco finds her greatest fulfillment in seeing others grow and succeed with her guidance. She values balance in work and family life and enjoys spending time at the beach, hiking, painting, engaging in creative projects, and exploring new places

Dr. Vuthiganon is an Associate Professor in the Department of Oral Rehabilitation at the Medical University of South Carolina James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine (MUSC CDM). He received his dental degree from MUSC CDM and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Adams School of Dentistry. Following residency, he came back to Charleston, SC, and joined the faculty full time at his dental alma mater.

Dr. Jonny Brennan’s personal “why statement” is to tinker in noble and intuitive stillness so that we all maximize wellness and feel connecting love. As the Associate Dean of Innovation and Strategy at the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ASDOH) he strives to complete that life mission.  

In this capacity, he provides ongoing analysis, implementation and evaluation of dental informatics utilized in clinical systems as well as new initiatives to incorporate the latest educational technology in the classroom and clinic.  

He has been part of the course design and didactic instruction in Oral Medicine and the Practice Management & Professional Development courses.  He also leads the strategic direction for Digital Dentistry initiatives across the various restorative and surgical disciplines at ASDOH. Dr. Brennan is currently expanding into new platforms of technology in the realms of virtual reality, artificial intelligence and web 3 blockchain, particularly around their implementation in the dental and medical education arena.  

Dr. Brennan co-founded Brennan Dental in Chandler, Arizona where he continues to practice general dentistry.  He also works as a part-time consultant and subject matter expert in the dental technology and education space.  

Jonny graduated Summa Cum Laude from Arizona State University in 2004. He then earned his Medical Degree from the University of Toledo College of Medicine. Jonny continued his studies at A.T. Still University earning a Master of Public Health from the School of Health Management and a Doctor of Dental Medicine from ASDOH. Dr. Brennan and his wife live in Queen Creek with their two daughters and one son.

Dr. Alexander Lee is a General Dentist, Professor, and Assistant Dean for Dental Informatics at Western University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine (CDM). His work focuses on developing and implementing technological solutions to improve clinical efficiency and educational processes.  Dr. Lee earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. His research interests include artificial intelligence, dental informatics, and digital workflows in both private practice and academic settings. He is a Fellow of the American College of Dentists (FACD) and the Pierre Fauchard Academy (PFA), as well as an alumnus of the ADEA Leadership Institute (LI). His passion lies in bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and practical application, helping dental professionals navigate the modern technological landscape with confidence.