17 honorees recognized for National Dental Hygiene Month
The Department of Periodontics and Dental Hygiene recognized 17 dental hygienists and dental hygiene students during National Dental Hygiene Month in October. Photo by Kyle Rogers.
In recognition of National Dental Hygiene Month in October, the Department of Periodontics and Dental Hygiene at UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry recognized 17 dental hygienists and dental hygiene students for their contributions to patient care, education, mentorship, and service.
Each week, the department highlighted individuals nominated by their colleagues, students, and peers. The spotlights included personal messages from nominators and were distributed by email and displayed on monitors throughout the school, including the fourth-floor video wall.
The 2026 spotlights included:
Week 1: Oct. 5-9
Grace Zhao, RDH, dental hygienist in the Department of General Practice and Dental Public Health
“Since joining us, Grace has changed the minds of patients who were initially hesitant about the new changes, demonstrating that she is a valuable addition to our team. She quickly won over our entire patient population, as well as the staff and residents. We often wonder how we would have managed without her, and we are grateful for Grace every day.”
Harold Henson, RDH, MEd, PhD, professor in the Department of Periodontics and Dental Hygiene and director of the Center for Teaching and Learning
“Dr. Henson has served as a dental hygienist and educator for more than 30 years and has positively influenced countless students, colleagues, and faculty mentees throughout his career. He is highly respected within the dental hygiene profession and continues to make significant contributions through his leadership, service, and dedication to advancing the field.”
Na’Kiyah Dobbs, Dental Hygiene Class of 2027
“Na’Kiyah is extremely detail-oriented in every aspect of her work, and her patients are truly lucky to have someone who puts so much care and attention into their treatment. Na’Kiyah is always willing to help her classmates and consistently steps up when others need support. She is a true leader and a wonderful example of what it means to be a dedicated future dental hygienist!”
Nikki Elspersman, Dental Hygiene Class of 2027
“Nikki consistently demonstrates professionalism, maturity, and a strong commitment to patient care. She is always polite, respectful, and well-prepared for clinic, approaching each appointment with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. What sets Nikki apart is her ability to apply sound clinical judgment while providing patient-centered care.”
Week 2: Oct. 12-16
Brandon Ho, Dental Hygiene Class of 2027
“He consistently shows up for everyone, whether it is academically or simply by being someone we can talk to and rely on. He never expects anything in return and genuinely seems happy knowing that he was able to help someone. Everyone in our class knows that if we need help, have a question, or need someone to talk to, we can count on him to be there. His kindness, patience, and willingness to support others have made a positive difference in our class and in my experience at school.”
Lejini Roy, RDH, MS, dental hygienist in the Department of Periodontics and Dental Hygiene
“Lejini is a dedicated member of our Periodontics and Dental Hygiene team who works closely with our residents and consistently provides compassionate, quality care to our patients. Her positive attitude, approachable personality, and willingness to support both patients and residents make her a valued member of our team and a pleasure to work with.”
Khairunisa Hashmani, RDH, MA, EdD, associate professor in the Department of Periodontics and Dental Hygiene
“With 18 years of clinical dental hygiene experience in family, periodontal, and pediatric practices, Nisa brings a wealth of real-world expertise to her teaching. She has taught a wide variety of courses and now mentors graduate students through educational seminars, practicums, and capstone experiences. Nisa is the person who celebrates others’ faculty successes and creates opportunities for colleagues and students to learn and excel.”
Rebecka Palacio, Dental Hygiene Class of 2027
“What makes Rebecka particularly fantastic is her ability to make others feel comfortable and supported. She is always willing to help her classmates, share her knowledge, and encourage those around her. Her positive attitude and dedication make her someone who truly represents the values of our profession and makes a meaningful impact on our class.”
Week 3: Oct. 19-23
Eloy Ruiz, Dental Hygiene Class of 2028
“What makes Eloy’s work as a hygienist stand out is that his passion for dentistry goes beyond the scope of dental hygiene. He consistently seeks opportunities to expand his knowledge beyond what is required by his program, including independently learning dental wax-ups with support from his D1 colleague. His curiosity, initiative, and commitment to continuing his education truly set him apart.”
Haizu Truong, RDH, dental hygienist with UT Dentists
“Haizu is always ready to go above and beyond for our patients. He is always so positive and makes our patients feel so comfortable.”
Hannah Medrano, RDH, MEd, assistant professor in the Department of Periodontics and Dental Hygiene
“She has been a great teacher and mentor to me throughout my career, when I was in school, working with research, after graduation, and even now that I’m back in UTSD as a dental student. She is also a great, passionate, dedicated, and committed professor. She always puts patients and students first. She would sacrifice her time to make sure students are learning and giving patients the best dental hygiene care.”
Sahand Naghipour, Dental Hygiene Class of 2027 and class president
“His dedication extends far beyond the clinic, as Sahand has devoted countless hours to nearly every community service opportunity available, providing preventive care and oral health education to underserved communities. It truly shows how much he loves this field of work, and it is inspiring! His commitment to his patients, classmates, and community truly represents what it means to be a future dental hygienist.”
Week 4: Oct. 26-30
Courtney Routh, RDH, MSDH, assistant professor in the Department of Periodontics and Dental Hygiene
“She is effortlessly full of effort; she wears multiple hats and exceptionally executes each one. Mother, graduate student, professor, wife. You can’t help but admire and become inspired.”
Gabrielle Monnier, RDH, MA, BS, dental hygienist with UT Dentists
“Gabbie works very hard every day to make sure our patients feel comfortable and well taken care of. It’s such a pleasure to work with someone so positive!”
Ilona Rutkowska, RDH, dental hygienist with UT Dentists
“I would like to nominate Ms. Ilona Rutkowska for her outstanding care and service. She is very professional, kind, and patient, and genuinely takes the time to make sure I feel comfortable and informed throughout my visit.”
Leanna Rubio, RDH, BSDH, MS, assistant professor in the Department of Periodontics and Dental Hygiene
“As a left-handed hygienist, it is amazing to see someone in the field who can relate to and help educate incoming left-handed students. Her guidance has given me the opportunity to develop and practice my skills in a space where I feel understood and supported.”
Sydney Strong, Dental Hygiene Class of 2027
“She truly represents the heart of dental hygiene. She is a genuinely caring and compassionate person who always goes out of her way to make sure the people around her are OK. She brings that same kindness and dedication to her patients, making sure they feel comfortable, cared for, and heard.”