Michelle Strange, MSDH, RDH
(Friday Speaker, 9:00 AM-12:30 PM)
Michelle Strange, MSDH, RDH, brings over 20 years of experience to her numerous roles in dentistry. A graduate of the Medical University of South Carolina with a Bachelor’s of Health Science and the University of Bridgeport with a Master’s in Dental Hygiene Education, she focuses her career on expanding the knowledge of her colleagues in all aspects of health care. Her passion for dentistry and its connection to overall health extends to her community and global efforts.
Michelle was the co-founder and the FIRE and ENERGY that made the A Tale of Two Hygienists podcast. Currently, she is the owner of Level Up Infection Prevention, MichelleStrangeRDH, a key-opinion leader, writer, content creator, infection control consultant, and a practicing dental hygienist.
Michelle’s passion for dentistry extends to her community, where she volunteers frequently and participates in global missions.
In 2021, Michelle decided to sell everything, pack up a 12ft trailer, and live her dream traveling country, possibly the world. You can learn more about her journey to help those who may not have access to dental care by visiting TheRoamingDentalHygienist.com. Michelle has her dental hygiene license in the many states she has been living in, making her one of the few roaming dental hygienists in the country. Michelle has an adventurous spirit that is front and center these days.
Jeannette Diaz, MPH, MSDH, RDHAP, RDH, FADHA
(Friday Speaker, 1:30 PM- 4:30 PM)
Jeannette is a keynote speaker, educator, and Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice in California. Jeannette owns and operates a portable dental hygiene practice which primarily serves older adults and individuals with developmental disabilities. Jeannette’s educational background includes dual master’s degrees in dental hygiene and public health. As a lifelong learner, she is currently in her final year of completing her doctorate in health sciences.
Jeannette has been described as approachable, collaborative, and reliable. As an empath, Jeannette is passionate about humanizing healthcare to improve the patient-provider experience. Jeannette’s main area of expertise is working with individuals with developmental disabilities. Additional interests include qualitative research, behavioral health, and grief studies. She has also served in various dental hygiene leadership positions at the local, state, and national level.
Jeannette works for the California Department of Developmental Services and teaches both graduate and undergraduate students. She was awarded the President’s Commitment to Diversity Award from MCPHS University and was a recipient of the 2021 Sunstar RDH Award of Distinction.
Kari Carter-Cherelus RDH, DA
(Saturday Speaker, 9:00 AM- 12:00 PM)
Kari Carter-Cherelus RDH, DA is an internationally known public speaker, consultant, author, a writer, a podcaster, and a clinician with 25 years in the dental industry. She authored the book The Ultimate Guide for Dental Hygienist Burnout to help dental hygienists in all stages of their career. She uses her platform as Founder of KMC Strategic Solutions to help improve the work culture in teams and organizations as well as to coach individuals. She endeavors to help all who are suffering from burnout and hostile work environments to reclaim their power. She firmly believes that it is only when we have made positive changes from within ourselves that we can influence change within others. To further connect with Kari you can contact her at cherelussmiles@gmail.com or at bit.ly/burnoutdentalhygienist.
