Heather Thomas named chair of NAU’s Department of Dental Hygiene
Northern Arizona University’s College of Health and Human Services has named Dr. Heather Thomas as chair of the Department of Dental Hygiene. Dr. Thomas has been an instructor with the department since 2012, serving first as a clinical instructor, then as an assistant clinical professor, associate clinical professor, and now as the department’s leader. Dr. Thomas holds a BS in Dental Hygiene, an MA in Educational Leadership, and a PhD in Interdisciplinary Health.
In addition to her extensive teaching experience, Dr. Thomas’ research focuses on combating oral health inequities among American Indian and Alaska Native populations. She recently served on a team of researchers and faculty that wrote a children’s book entitled, Welcome, Baby, Smile! which aims to provide a sustainable, meaningful, and relevant resource for parents and children to learn about early childhood dental care.
“I am a Lumberjack myself, three times over, and now am honored to oversee this department that I care so much for. As Arizona faces healthcare worker shortages, some of the worst in the nation, I am focused on ensuring our department helps to meet those shortages, training Arizona students to stay and work in Arizona communities.”
NAU’s Department of Dental Hygiene has earned a nationwide reputation for educating dental hygiene professionals since its inception in 1973 and is the only program in Arizona that awards a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene upon completion of the program.
Visit NAU’s Department of Dental Hygiene to learn more.