Orthodontic Staff
Our staff team contributes greatly to the education and clinical service mission of the department. Staff members support all areas including assisting with patient care along with faculty and residents, attending to the departmental business office, coordinating appointment schedules at the front desk and handling our laboratory needs.
Business Office
To speak with an office representative, please call 319-335-9656
Jodi
"I grew up in Davenport, Iowa. I have been married to my husband David for 41years and current live in Gibson, Iowa, a small town about an hour away from Iowa City. We have 2 daughters, 2 son-in-Iaws and 6 grandsons. I have worked and sat in the same chair in OPRM since 1999. One thing I enjoy about OPRM is talking to the patients and helping them understand what will be done at their appointment. I love when they are so appreciative to me and thank me many times. It makes me feel like I really done my job well. Outside of work I enjoy shopping, riding our Harley Davidson motorcycle with my husband but most of all I love spending time with my grandsons. They are my whole life. We live on 6 acres and have a pond and a swimming pool so they love to come to grandpa and grandma’s house to go fishing, swimming, shooting birds, riding the ranger and everything that boys love to do. I guess I would have to say one fun thing I totally enjoy is going to Clear Lake, Iowa the first week in February and meeting up with my group of besties for the Winter Dance Party. The anniversary of the death of Buddy Holly, Big Bopper and Ritchie Valens. I am there for a week and we dress up in our 50’s clothes and pretend we are teenagers again. It is the most enjoyable time for me. I have been going for 20 some years."
Carmen
"I grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and spent some of my summers with my dad in Chinook, Montana, which is still one of the most beautiful places I’ve had the opportunity to experience. I joined the OPRM department in May 2026 and really enjoy being part of a team that works together and supports one another. I also enjoy the opportunity to interact with so many different people, both within our department and throughout the College of Dentistry. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, going to the movies, and, most of all, spending time with my husband, my three children, and my three grandchildren."
Oral Pathology Lab Staff
Kait
"Born and raised in Sioux City, Iowa, I received my bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Iowa. I have been with OPRM since 2013 and enjoy working with pathologists, residents, and lab team in our biopsy service and Sterilizer Monitoring Program. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and cheering on the Hawkeyes."
Alexis
"I grew up in Keokuk, Iowa, and have been with the OPRM department since 2020. One of the things I enjoy most about my job are the people I get to work with and knowing the work we do makes a difference. Outside of work, I like camping and spending time outdoors with my husband and daughter. We’re always trying to find new ways to run off some of her endless energy!"
Jordan
"I was born and raised in Waterloo, Iowa, and have been with the OPRM department since 2019. I started as a student employee in the lab and then became a full-time staff member in 2022. One of the things I enjoy most about my role is making a meaningful impact behind the scenes and getting to work with my hands. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, backpacking, reading, and gardening, or really anything involving plants. I also enjoy spending time with my partner and our two cats and dog, who always keep us on our toes!"
Dental Assistants
Our dental assistants are a crucial part of our team.
They are tasked with assisting faculty during dental procedures and helping patients and faculty with treatment.
Shanna
"Hi, I’m Shanna! I grew up in Wisconsin but have called Iowa home for quite some time now. I’ve been with the College of Dentistry for over 12 years and have been a dental assistant in Oral Pathology, Radiology & Medicine for the past two years. One of the things I enjoy most about my role is that I’m always learning something new, and I really enjoy helping people.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my kids, Colton and Mya, and our dog, Winnie. I really enjoy traveling, trying new things, and making memories. I’m definitely a bit of an adventure seeker and a “yes girl”. From brunch to skydiving, I’m in! I’m always up for a new experience and having a little fun along the way."
Cheri
"I grew up in Iowa City, Iowa, and have been part of the OPRM department since 2021. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping patients find the answers they’ve been searching for, especially those who have seen multiple providers without receiving a diagnosis. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my husband and cheering on Iowa football!"
Maria
"I have been part of the OPRM department for almost three years and have been with the college for 33 years. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my new husband and our two cats. In my free time, I enjoy gardening and painting."
Oral Radiology Staff
Hannah
"I have been a part of the OPRM department for 2 years. Outside of work, I enjoy taking fitness classes, especially yoga, and pretty much anything that involves being outdoors and in nature. I’m a big believer in saying yes to new experiences and stepping outside of my comfort zone whenever I can."
Clinical Clerks
We help with appointments and communication with patients.
Ashley
“My name is Ashley, and I’ve been part of the OPRM department since 2024. One of my favorite parts of my job is providing patients with the best possible care experience from the moment they arrive for their appointment. I believe those first interactions really set the tone for their entire experience at the College of Dentistry, and I love knowing that I’ve had a positive impact on their visit.
Outside of work, I’ve been married to my husband for 11 years, and together we have three young boys who keep us very busy! We’re always on the go, usually running to one of their many practices or activities. In my rare free time, I love cozying up on the couch with a good book, and when the weather is nice, I enjoy spending time working in the yard.”
Lori
"I live in Kalona and have been with the OPRM department off and on since 2008. One of the things I enjoy most about my role is working with patients, coworkers and staff. Every day is different! Outside of work, I enjoy riding our Harley with my husband in the summer and snowmobiling in northern MN in the winter. I also enjoy spending time with my son, daughter-in-law, granddaughter and grandson. We recently had a family cruise in Jan. and I got to share a cabin with my 12 y.o. granddaughter. Very special!"
Diana
"My name is Diana, growing up I spend half of my life living here in Iowa city and Guatemala. I been with the OPRM department since 2024. One of the things I enjoy the most about my role is helping others and making our patients feel more at ease when they come to their appointments. I also help our clinics as a Spanish Interpreter. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking and biking with my husband and kids."