Past Tellies Award Winners

  • Mohave College

    Dental Education Innovator

    Mohave College

    Under Tracy Gift’s leadership, the Mohave College Dental Hygiene Program has redefined oral health education by embedding teledentistry into its curriculum and clinics. Students gain hands-on experience using virtual tools to collaborate with off-site dentists, conduct chart reviews, and make real-time clinical decisions. This model expands care across Mohave County and beyond, while preparing graduates to deliver technology-enabled dentistry in underserved areas.

  • Sarah Labonte, APRN-CNP

    Oral Health Program Innovator

    Sarah Labonte, APRN-CNP

    Sarah has been key to the success of the Mainely Connection and Dentistry.One pilot program, connecting foster children in Maine with consistent dental homes. Through Spurwink’s partnership with Mainely Teeth, her leadership has ensured that vulnerable children receive essential care and built a strong model for improving oral health outcomes across the foster care system.

  • Camarena Health

    Dental Industry Innovator

    Camarena Health

    Corina Galvan has led the integration of teledentistry at Camarena Health, transforming both patient care and clinical operations. Her leadership has streamlined workflows, strengthened provider–patient relationships, and improved outcomes. By championing innovation and collaboration, Corina has set a new standard for how community health centers can expand access through technology, compassion, and teamwork.

  • Dr. Christine Hao, MPH, DMD

    Dental Innovator

    Dr. Christine Hao, MPH, DMD

    Dr. Christine Hao is a pioneer in teledentistry innovation for geriatric and special-needs populations. Through Sound Dental Care, she has integrated virtual care into mobile and long-term care settings across Washington State, ensuring that older adults—many homebound or in nursing facilities—receive essential preventive and diagnostic services.

  • Carlos Gaxiola, RDHAP

    Dental Hygiene Innovator

    Carlos Gaxiola, RDHAP

    Carlos helped establish one of Arizona’s first pediatric-affiliated hygiene practices, expanding access in Yuma’s Dental Health Professional Shortage Area. Using teledentistry, radiographs, and intraoral imaging, he provides preventive care and diagnostics for about 40 children each day, collaborating with dentists remotely to ensure timely follow-up. His commitment to innovation and equity has made him a leader in advancing pediatric oral health for underserved communities.