About
The Michigan Dental Hygienists’ Association is committed to be the voice for every Dental Hygienist practicing in the state of Michigan – No one left behind! Our Vision, Our Mission and Our Core Values are something we take very seriously.
MDHA Vision Statement
MDHA will be the voice of all Registered Dental Hygienists in Michigan
MDHA Mission Statement
The Mission of this Association is to advocate for the profession of Dental Hygiene
MDHA Core Values:
Unity, Diversity, Mutual Respect, Accountability, Excellence in Practice, Professional Ethics
ADHA Vision Statement
ADHA excels as a valued, collaborative and influential community that is transforming the dental hygiene profession.
OUR CORE LEADERSHIP
President
Elizabeth I. Pitts, RDH, MS
Elizabeth I. Pitts, RDH, MS received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Howard University. She continued her education at the University of Michigan where she received a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene. Her extensive dental career spans public, private, education, and research sectors. Her passion for community dentistry and increasing minority representation within the dental field is evident in her academic achievements, volunteerism, and participation in a variety of professional organizations. She originates from Detroit, MI and currently resides in Southfield, MI with her husband, son, and step-daughters.
Immediate Past President
Michelle Spencer, RDH, MA
Michelle Spencer RDH, MA received her AAS in Dental Hygiene from Oakland Community College (OCC) and continued to the University of Michigan’s Degree completion program where she received her BSDH. She always loved public health, but during her time at the University of Michigan, she fell in love with teaching and began teaching at her alma mater, OCC, shortly after graduation. In pursuit of working in higher education, she continued to Central Michigan University, where she received her Master of Arts in Educational Technology. When it comes to her support of the dental hygiene profession, she was active within the ADHA as a student. She quickly took on leadership within Greater Detroit Dental Hygienists’ Association and the Michigan Dental Hygienist Association. Her passions still include giving back to her community whenever she has the opportunity and supporting diversity initiatives. Last but not least, she could not have accomplished these things without the support of her husband Aaron and three daughters; June, Mazzy, and Ruby.
President Elect
Erica Smith, RDH
Erica Smith is a full-time registered dental hygienist working clinically in a periodontal office. I have been practicing clinically for over 10 years and hold my bachelor’s of science in dental hygiene. I am also a busy mom of two and live in Traverse City, MI with my husband Kyle. I was recently certified in personal training and am also a certified nutrition councilor. My passion is helping people improve their overall health.
Vice President
Samantha Mishler, RDH, MS
Samantha Mishler, RDH, MS completed her BSDH in 2014 and her MSDH in 2016 both at the University of Michigan. She has worked in private practice and dental hygiene education since graduation. When not working in dental hygiene Samantha enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and chocolate lab.
Treasurer
Valerie Nieto, RDH, MS
Valerie Nieto, RDH, MS is an active member of the Grand Shores DHA Component of the MDHA. Valerie is a full-time clinical lecturer at the University of Michigan, School of Dentistry. She also serves as the Veterans’ Oral Health Specialist for the American Institute of Dental Public Health, and as Chair-Elect of the ADEA Sig for Graduate Dental Hygiene Education Programs.
Speaker of the House
Sandy Sutton, RDH, BSDH
Sandy Sutton, RDH, BSDH is a graduate of Baker College and the University of Detroit Mercy. She started directly in public health administration with the State of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services after graduation and serves as the Community Water Fluoridation Coordinator. She has been a member of the association since 2013 and is the current President of the Greater Detroit Dental Hygienists’ Association.