Heather McIlvoy is a dental assisting educator and higher education professional with experience spanning clinical dentistry, academic leadership, accreditation, compliance, curriculum development, and distance education. She currently serves as a Dental Assisting Program Director and Distance Education Coordinator in postsecondary education, where she combines her clinical background with a passion for creating high-quality, accessible, and effective learning experiences for students.

Heather began her career in dentistry as an Expanded Duty Dental Assistant (EDDA), working in both general and pediatric dentistry before transitioning into dental assisting education. She earned her Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification through American Medical Technologists (AMT) in 2019. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration and a Master of Education in Education Technology and Instructional Design and is a Certified Higher Education Professional (CHEP) in Online Teaching.

In addition to her work in higher education, Heather has served for the past three years as an accreditation evaluator for a national healthcare education accrediting organization. She has also contributed to the profession as a member of AMT’s Subject Matter Expert Committee and serves on her institution’s compliance committee.

Heather’s professional interests center on strengthening dental assisting education through thoughtful curriculum design, effective instructional practices, accreditation and regulatory compliance, and innovative approaches to online and technology-enhanced learning. She is especially passionate about bridging the gap between clinical practice and education to better prepare future dental professionals for successful careers and meaningful service within their communities.

Heather McIlvoy has no financial interests or relationships to disclose.