In January, Olga M. Gutierrez joined PNWU-SDM as an Associate Professor of Dental Hygiene.
Olga has been a hygienist for 17 years and began her academic teaching journey in 2019 at Yakima Valley College Dental Hygiene Program. She completed her bachelor’s degree through Yakima Valley College BASDH Bridge Program in 2020 and obtained her Master’s in Instruction Design from Western Governors University in 2021.
As an educator, she practices self-reflection and empathy so she may never forget the challenges students face, as they navigate their professional journey. Her hope is to help shift the internal dialogue of most students; whose perceptions regarding failure do not constitute a lack of self-worth, but instead perceiving it as a necessary element to progress within their program of study. She intends to contribute to an environment where innovation is welcomed, diversity is celebrated, belonging is sacred, and professional growth is supported.
She enjoys watching Ted Lasso repeatedly, taking walks in her neighborhood with her husband, meditating, and attending Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash in the fall.
We are excited to have Ms. Gutierrez join our team!
