Heather began her dental career in 2018 by enrolling in the Dental Assisting Program at Germanna Community College. She graduated Summa Cum Laude as a DANB Certified Dental Assistant and received the GCC Dental Assisting Award that same year. Motivated to advance her career, she entered the Dental Hygiene Program at Northern Virginia Community College’s GCC Cohort, where her leadership journey with the Virginia Dental Hygienists’ Association (VDHA) began.

While in the program, Heather served as Class President and SADHA President. She also contributed as a student page and student delegate at the VDHA House of Delegates and was the student author for GCC’s submissions to the VDHA Curet Newsletter. Toward the end of her program, she was appointed as the student member of the VDHA Leadership Development Committee. Guided by committee mentors, including past VDHA Presidents, Heather was selected as the student interviewee for the educational video Emerging as a Student Leader. She also co-created, developed, and co-hosted the continuing education session Transitioning from Student to Professional, which was presented at the 2021 VDHA Scientific Session. Upon graduation, she earned an Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene with Summa Cum Laude honors and was awarded the prestigious VDHA Student Award.

Since entering professional practice, Heather has remained a dedicated leader within VDHA. Her service includes roles as Member Delegate, Interim Trustee, ADHA Liaison for the GCC Student Chapter, and Council Member for the Leadership Support Council. She currently serves as VDHA Vice President, a position she has held for the past four years. In addition to her leadership roles, Heather practices full-time as a clinical dental hygienist, is pursuing an advanced degree, and enjoys time with her family, friends, and horses.