I grew up in Northern Indiana in a town called Merrillville, with all the wonderful influences of nearby Chicago. After high school graduation, I began my college education at Indiana University in Bloomington. After 3 years, I was accepted into the dental hygiene program at Indiana University School of Dentistry in Indianapolis. While finishing the hygiene program in 1984, I decided I wanted to become a dentist. After attending dental school, I completed a 2 year pediatric dental residency at Riley Children’s Hospital and began an amazing career promoting healthy smiles in children.
I have had the pleasure of being married to my husband Steven since 1984. Four years later we were truly blessed with twins. My children are currently pursuing their own careers. Brandon is married and is enjoying his career as Distance Cross Country and Track Coach at Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio. Marika and their partner live in New York City and is thriving in her career in film currently as a post-production colorist.
For fun, besides working with children, I enjoy exercising in pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. To relax, I take pleasure in playing the piano and checking out the latest movies. My passion is traveling and skiing in Colorado. The adventures of seeing new places in the United States and around the World is very exciting and teaches me the cultures and customs of people everywhere.
I was born with a cleft lip and palate. As a child, I spent at least one week per year in the hospital for surgery related to my cleft. At ten years old, I decided I wanted to be a pediatric doctor. I wanted to help children feel comfortable, just like my doctors did; but I also had insight into being treated “different” than other children. These childhood experiences led me on a lifelong journey and educational path towards a dental career specializing in children.
CREDENTIALS:
IU School of Dentistry, DDS, 1989
Riley Children’s Hospital, Pediatric Certificate, 1991
Ralph McDonald Pediatric Dentistry Award, 1991
IU School of Dentristry, MSD, 1994
Board Certified, Diplomate of the AAPD, 1998
Board Consultant of America Board of Pediatric Dentistry, 2010, 2011, 2013
Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, 2017
Volunteer Faculty of Riley Pediatric Dental Residency Program
MEMBERSHIPS:
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
Indiana Society of Pediatric Dentistry
American Board of Pediatric Dentistry College of Diplomates
