40 under 40 - Final

The American College of Dentists salutes the

NDA 2025 | 40 Under 40 Awardees

NDA Fellows/Sponsors and NDA members who were inducted into fellowship in New Orleans, October 2024.

The mission of the American College of Dentists is to advance excellence, ethics, professionalism, and leadership in oral healthcare. acd.org

Each year, NDA members (among others) who have achieved Fellowship status in the American College of Dentists identify and nominate qualified colleagues for Fellowship who are promoting the very highest ideals of our beloved profession. Nominees are selected based on their exceptional contributions in areas such as organized dentistry, oral healthcare, dental research, dental education, the profession, and society.

Dentists under the age of 40 may be selected based upon their trajectory to make exceptional contributions. 40 under 40 awardees are encouraged to continue to advance excellence, ethics, professionalism, and leadership in oral healthcare.

Now that you have been honored as 40 under 40 awardees for your accomplishments, ACD Fellows are watching you! Stay the course. They expect that you will earn the letters “FACD” after your name and degree.

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PROGRAM INTRODUCTION OF AWARDEES OPENING REMARKS LAUREN SCOTT INVOCATION DR. MADELINE J. ANDERSON THOMAS PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE DR. CHERYLE BAPTISTE HILL SPONSOR WELCOME Dr. MATILDE HERNANDEZ

Dinner Award Presentations Special Recognition Closing Remarks

Emcee Lauren Scott is an Emmy Award-winning host, producer, and content creator with over a decade of experience in television and digital media. A proud Chicago native, she's known for her dynamic on-camera presence, sharp storytelling skills, and infectious energy. From morning shows to live interviews, Lauren knows how to command a room and keep audiences engaged. Whether she's creating viral social content or hosting live events, Lauren brings warmth, wit, and a whole lot of heart to everything she does.

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Khara Gresham Jowhar Brown Emma Guzman Tiffany Otto District II

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Sheld'onia Evans Rasheeda Johnson Shawn Mitchell Dominique Bonner District IV Aneesa Bone Damien Lamaar Cuffie Chione Daniel Drake Dudley Jonathan Elmore Eric Ennuson Jordan Jones Latoya Joseph Travis Kimble Brandon Morgan Jessica Williams Richard Long District V Lena Adams Aalieyah Billings Brandon Goodloe Bethel Ozumba Danielle Smith Marissa Spruell Ruth Umoren Simeon Udunka District VI Darryl Caesar Niekia Franklin Joshwin Hall Kenneth Jones Sandra Nnodim

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Dr. Lena Adams is a proud Texan, born and raised in Houston. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, she decided to follow her passion for helping others and chose a career in dentistry. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences from the University of Houston and was active in the American Student Dental Association (ASDA), especially on the social committee.

She then went on to get her Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where she also played a big role in the Student National Dental Association (SNDA) as social chair and vice president. After graduation, she completed a General Practice Residency at Louisiana State University Health Science Center in Shreveport, LA, gaining hands-on experience with complex hospital-based dentistry and serving in Public Health.

Over the years, Dr. Adams has had the pleasure of serving communities in northwest Louisiana, East Texas, Dallas, and Houston. She's passionate about providing friendly, comprehensive dental care to her patients and her community.

When she's not working, you can find her doing working out, traveling, dining out, or hanging out with her 8-year-old Jack Russell Terrier, Stetson Strait.

Dr. Aalieyah Billings Lieutenant (LT ) Aalieyah M. Billings, DDS, is a native of Chicago, Illinois. She was selected as a Naval Health Scholars Collegiate and earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Meharry Medical College in 2022. LT Billings commissioned into the United States Navy Dental Corps in May 2022.

Following Officer Development School (ODS) in Newport, RI, LT Billings reported to Sewells Point Branch Health Clinic NAVSTA Norfolk to complete an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency program. She now serves operationally as the Health Services Dental Department Head on USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28).

LT Billings has served in the military for 12 years. Her current assignment as the sole dental provider aboard USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28) includes: outfitting of the ship's dental clinic, direct patient care of 750 Sailors and embarked Marines, maintaining fleet dental readiness above 98%, administrative oversight, and overseeing 14 junior Sailors.

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Dr. Aneesa Bone, a native of Jackson, Tennessee, graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Biology from the illustrious Tuskegee University. She went on to earn her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Alabama­ Birmingham School of Dentistry, where she was honored to be a National Health Service Corps scholarship recipient. While completing her four-year service commitment at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), she provided high-quality oral health for rural populations and people living below the poverty line. Currently, Dr. Bone works as a staff dentist for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Dr. Bone is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She has held numerous leadership roles while in SNDA, including Student National Dental Association Chapter President and Chapter Impressions Chair. She also launched an Oral Cancer Awareness Walk and Brunch Networking event for dentists and dental students from underrepresented groups. She and her husband, Vernon, have a five-year-old daughter named Lennox and a newborn named Layla.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Bone enjoys acting and running. She completed the 2023 NYC Marathon. Additionally, she is a Mickey Travels travel agent for Disney vacations

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A native of Illinois, Dr. Dominique Bonner discovered her passion for dentistry early in life through her innate desire to bring joy to others-one smile at a time. Her journey in oral health began in Washington, D.C., where she earned both her undergraduate degree and Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) from Howard University. She further advanced her training by completing a hospital-based General Practice Residency at Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center in New York.

Dr. Bonner is the proud co-owner of Dentcare Now, the first Urgent Dental Care Clinic in the DMV area, where she is helping to redefine access to emergency oral health services. Her innovative leadership has helped close a critical gap in care, ensuring patients receive timely and compassionate treatment when they need it most.

A dedicated community advocate, Dr. Bonner also serves on the Board of Directors for Lynn's Gift, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering and enriching underserved communitie through access to resources and support. She continues to expand her clinical expertise with advanced certification in BOTOX" administration for facial aesthetics and TMJ pain management.

Dr. Bonner's approach to dentistry is rooted in prevention and patient-centered care. She bui personalized, long-term treatment plans to support comprehensive oral health and help her patients maintain confident, healthy smiles.

Outside the clinic, Dr. Bonner enjoys traveling and fitness, and she remains actively engaged her professional community. She is a proud member of the American Dental Association (ADA), National Dental Association (NDA), and American Academy of Clear Aligners (AACA

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Dr. Jowhar Brown began his professional journey as a passionate 7th grade science teacher in South Philadelphia, where he nurtured curiosity and inspired young minds to explore the wonders of biology, chemistry, and physics. During their time in the classroom, Dr. Brown discovered a deeper calling-one that combined their love for science with a desire to make a tangible, lasting impact on children's health. This led them to pursue a career in pediatric dentistry.

After earning their Doctor of Dental surgery degree at Howard university, Dr. Brown completed a pediatric dental residency at Wyckoff heights medical center in Brooklyn NY. Bringing his educational background and compassionate approach to the dental chair he has an unique ability to connect with children, which allows them to create a calm and supportive environment for even the most anxious young patients.

Now practicing in Philadelphia, Dr. Brown is deeply committed to community service and health equity. They regularly volunteer at local schools, offering oral health education and free dental screenings, and collaborate with nonprofits to provide care to underserved families. Whether helping organizing mobile clinics or mentoring students interested in health careers, Dr. Brown believes in using his skills to uplift the community.

His journey-from educator to healthcare provider-reflects a lifelong dedication to empowering youth and strengthening the well-being of Philadelphia neighborhoods. Dr. Ellis continues to blend science, service, and heart in every aspect of their work.

Dr. Sheld'onia Evans is a proud native of Miami, Florida, and the devoted mother of her 14-year-old daughter, Christin Jackson-her greatest motivation and inspiration. A graduate of Miami-Dade public schools, Dr. Evans finished in the top 5% of her high school class and joined the United States Army Reserves at just 17 years old. It was during her military service that she was introduced to dentistry and trained as a dental assistant, sparking a lifelong passion for the field.'

Determined to grow in the profession, Dr. Evans became a Certified Registered Dental Hygienist and practiced for four years before being accepted to Howard University College of Dentistry. Upon earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, she began practicing general dentistry in Beckley, West Virginia.

By the time of this honor, Dr. Evans will have reached a significant professional milestone as the Managing Clinical Director at Aspen Dental in Morgantown, WV. Her nearly two decades of combined experience in military and clinical dentistry reflect a deep commitment to service, leadership, and patient-centered care.

Outside of the office, Dr. Evans enjoys reading, traveling, staying active, and creating memories with her closest friends and loved ones. Her journey reflects resilience, service, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

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Dr. Niekia Franklin is a board-certified pediatric dentist and the founder of

Redwood Pediatric Dentistry in Oakland, California. Passionate about whole­ child wellness, Dr. Franklin is known for her gentle approach, focus on prevention, and commitment to creating a warm, welcoming dental home for every child. Her practice emphasizes minimally invasive, evidence-based care and supports families through every stage of their child's oral development-from teething to teenage years.

Dr. Franklin received her dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and completed her pediatric residency at Indiana University, where she trained in advanced techniques for managing dental anxiety, working with children with special health care needs, and providing safe, effective care in hospital and outpatient settings. As both a clinician and a mother, she brings deep empathy and insight into the family experience, empowering parents and kids with education, compassion, and respect.

Beyond the clinic, Dr. Franklin is an active part of the Oakland community.

She regularly visits local schools and preschools for dental education, supports youth organizations, mentors predental students, and sponsors community events throughout the year.

She lives in Oakland with her husband, their daughter Audrey. Dr. Franklin believes that every child deserves a joyful, safe experience at the dentist =.-...;...aand finds great purpose in providing that for her families.

Dr. Brandon Goodloe is a board-certified pediatric dentist in the Houston, TX area and proud co-owner of House of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, a modern dental practice, dedicated to delivering compassionate, comprehensive care. A 2018 graduate of Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry and a 2020 pediatric dental residency graduate from Howard University, Dr. Goodloe is committed to excellence in both clinical care and community impact. Dr. Goodloe's passion for pediatric dentistry is rooted in his belief that every child deserves a healthy, confident smile and a positive experience at the dentist. Currently as an associate dentist at My Kid's Dentist and Orthodontics, Dr. Goodloe blends clinical expertise with a warm, friendly approach that helps kids and parents feel comfortable and supported from their very first visit.

Beyond the dental chair, Dr. Goodloe is an enthusiastic mentor who dedicates time to guiding aspiring dentists and dental residents navigate their educational and professional journeys. His commitment to mentorship reflects the same values he brings to his practice: leadership, service, and empowerment.

When he is not caring for patients or mentoring future dental professionals, Dr. Goodloe enjoys traveling the world, staying active through fitness and weight training, and immersing himself in new experiences that fuel both personal and professional growth. With a solid foundation in education, a passion for service and mentorship, and a vision for a healthier future for all children, Dr. Bra Goodloe is proud to serve his community as a pediatric dental leader and role model.

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Khara Gresham, DMD, MPH is a cosmetic and general dentist practicing in Brookline, MA. Dr. Gresham, originally from Philadelphia, attended undergrad at Brown University in Providence followed by dental school at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine where she received a joint degree in Dentistry (DMD) and Master's in Public Health. Over her 1 years of practicing, Dr. Gresham has been committed to increasing gender and racial diversity within the field of dentistry. She does this through her position as Board Member for the Tufts University Dental Alumni Association and involvement with the Boston District Dental Society where she has served as Chair Elect, among other positions. Dr. Gresham is a Massachusetts Dental Society 2022 'Top 10 Under 10' recipient and has been named a 'Top Dentist' in Boston for the past four years. When not practicing dentistry Dr. Gresham enjoys running and traveling!

Dr. Gresham is an active member of the American Dental Association, Massachusetts Dental Society, National Dental Association, Crown Council, Academy of General Dentists, and International College of Dentists.

Dr. Rasheeda Johnson is a dedicated clinician, entrepreneur, and global health advocate whose career has been defined by a commitment to expanding access to dental care for underserved populations. A graduate of Howard University College of Dentistry, Dr. Johnson completed her General Practice Residency at Nassau University Medical Center and earned an MBA with a focus in Marketing from Louisiana State University Shreveport. She holds advanced training in orthodontics, implant surgery, and sedation dentistry, including IV sedation and BOTOX E therapy for TMJdisorders.

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Dr. Johnson is the co-founder of Dental Helping Hands, a nonprofit organization that provides free dental care and education in underserved regions across Africa, the Caribbean, and the United States. The organization also performs life-changing cleft lip and palate surgeries through a team of volunteer oral surgeons. In response to the critical need for accessible care in her own community, she co-founded DentCare Now, a 7-day-a-week urgent dental care center in Fairfax, Virginia. The practice offers comprehensive services and a patient-centered approach designed to reduce barriers to treatment-especially for those with dental anxiety or limited availability.

Dr. Johnson has delivered care in correctional facilities, special needs surgery clinics, and rural communities -guided by the belief that everyone deserves compassionate, high-quality dental care regardless of circumstance.

Her ongoing goals include expanding mobile outreach to senior communities and integrating more mission-driven travel into her clinical practice. She remains passionate about mentorship, health equity, and creating systems that prioritize access for all.

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Dr. Jordan Jones was born and raised in Miami, Florida. He began his academic journey at the nation's first historically Black university, Lincoln University, where he also played football. He went on to attend the illustrious Mecca, Howard University, where he completed both dental school and his orthodontic residency. After graduation, he felt a deep calling-not only to become an orthodontist, but to serve as a friend, brother, and mentor to the very community that raised him.

In 2019, shortly after completing his training, Dr. Jordan opened Esteem Dental.

By 2021, he launched Esteem Braces and Aligners, fully stepping into his purpose. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he took time to reflect on his journey and felt God calling him back home to Miami. Though initially hesitant, he recognized that his greatest impact was needed in his own backyard.

With faith, he took a leap-and found the purpose he had been searching for.

Today, Dr. Jordan is the proud owner of two orthodontic practices in North Miami Beach and Kendall. Beyond the clinic, he is a member of the Miami-Dade County National Dental Association, serves in the youth ministry at his local church, and coaches and advises his former high school football team. He is deeply honored to be recognized by the NOA with such a prestigious award-and offers his heartfelt thanks.

Dr. Kenny Jones was born in Vallejo and raised in American Canyon, where

he developed a passion for music, basketball, track, and community service.

At American Canyon High School, he served as Student Body President and graduated as Valedictorian. He continued his education at the University of California, San Diego, earning a B.S. in Biochemistry and Cell Biology.

While at UC San Diego, Dr. Jones was a Campus Wide Senator, Track & Field team member, and representative on the Athletic Council. His passion for dentistry began through the UCSD Pre-Dental Society, where he volunteered extensively at free clinics serving underserved communities. His dedication led him to manage a community clinic in Ensenada, Mexico.

Dr. Jones pursued a Master's in Biology with a focus in Analytical Chemistry at UCSD, conducting research on tooth staining in the Dorrestein Lab in collaboration with Colgate. He earned his DDS from Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, where he received foundational training and served as President of the Student National Dental Association.

Now providing care for the Greater Bay Area as an associate dentist, Dr. Jones brings a strong commitment to service, scientific curiosity, and a deep connection to his Bay Area roots. Dr. Jones is excited to provide mentorship to future dreamers.

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Dr. Anthonio McFadden's journey to dentistry began in Downriver, Michigan, where they were raised by their dedicated single mother. From birth, she instilled in them a strong sense of purpose-recalling how the physician who delivered them remarked that their hands were destined for either basketball or medicine. Though recruited for basketball in middle school, Dr. McFadden discovered a deeper passion for science. By high school, Dr. McFadden decided to prioritize academics while working 40 hours a week at McDonald's to support themselves.

Dr. McFadden's relentless work ethic earned them admission to the University of Michigan, where they majored in biochemistry and led the largest MAPS (Minority Association of Pre-Medical and Pre-Dental Students) chapter in the state. Their commitment to mentorship has remained a cornerstone of their mission, guiding over 100 students into dental school and STEM careers. Their inspiration to pursue dentistry was solidified through their mentorship under Dr. Ronald Livingston and training alongside Dr. Blake Livingston. Dr. McFadden went on to pursue a Master's in Biology in Miami Gardens, where they laid the academic foundation for a top Dental Admissions Test score. This achievement earned them an 80% scholarship to the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, where they quickly distinguished themselves.

Leading his class in surgery, Dr. McFadden completed over 150 extractions, performed multiple molar root canals, and developed extensive clinical experience across a range of complex procedures. Upon graduation, they were recruited directly by Dr. Roger Pecina, one of the nation's most respected dentists, to join the world's largest single-owner private dental practice. Today, as the founder of Dental Emergency of Royal Oak by Smile Detroit,

Dr. Kenny Jones As the owner of Iconic Orthodontics, Dr. Brandon Morgan is dedicated to serving his hometown with the highest level of orthodontic care. He keeps up with the latest techniques in order to achieve healthier and straighter smiles. He believes in providing personalized care for each of his patients.

He received his undergraduate degree in Biology from Emory University and his Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville. Dr. Morgan earned a Certificate in Health Policy from the Robert Wood Johnson Center for Health Policy and completed his orthodontic residency at Howard University College of Dentistry in Washington, D.C. Dr. Morgan is a member of the American Dental Association, American Association of Orthodontists, and Southern Association of Orthodontists. He is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity and the LEAD Atlanta leadership class of 2022. In his spare time, he enjoys music, exercise, and spending time with family.

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Dr. Udunka is a native of Atlanta, GA. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Xavier University in New Orleans, LA. After college he returned to Atlanta and became a Research Chemist for the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. He is a proud alumnus of Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville, TN. After graduation Dr. Udunka moved to Dallas, Texas for his postgraduate residency training. He completed both the AEGD residency program and Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery fellowship at Texas A&M College of Dentistry Dr. Udunka holds the level of Masterships in both the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics and International Congress of Oral lmplantologists. Dr. Udunka's primary scope of dentistry is oral surgery and implantology. He is Chief Dental Officer of Floss Dallas LLC and owner of Wisdom Teeth Concierge PLLC. Dr. Udunka is actively involved in organized dentistry and currently serves as the President of the MC Cooper Dental Society which is the NDA affiliate in Dallas, TX. He believes in delivering compassionate and confident care will optimize the patient experience.

Most importantly Dr. Udunka is a loving husband to his beautiful wife Chioma. T hey have four children whose names are Simeon Ill, Isaiah, Malachi, and baby daughter Chizara. T hey enjoy traveling and making positive memories as a family.

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2025 40 under 40 awards Committee Dr. James Jenkins (Co-Chair) Dr. Da'Kandryia Peters (Co-Chair) Dr. Chanelle Roberts (Co-Chair) Dr. Erika King Dr. Njeri Penda Dr. Tunji Sijuwade Dr. Reginald Salter, NDA Board Chairman Ms. Tonya Horsley, NDA Staff Mr. Marcus Ware, NDA Executive Director Dr. Cheryle Baptiste Hill, NDA President, Ex-Officio

National Dental Association 2025 Executive Committee Cheryle Baptiste Hill, DDS, FICD, FIAMD, President Reginald 0. Salter, DDS, MBA, PhD, FICD, FACD, Chairman, NDA Board of Trustees Wallace J. Bellamy, DMD, FACD, FICD, President-elect LaTedra M. Collins, DDS, Vice President Edward H. Chappelle, Jr., DDS, FACD, Treasurer Lenise N. Yarber, BSDH, DDS, FACD, FICD, Assistant Treasurer Bryant A. Jones, DDS, Secretary Daniel L. Young, DDS, Assistant Secretary Joshua B. Tyson, DDS, MPH, FICD, Speaker of the House John A. Nelson, DDS, FACD, Vice Speaker of the House Nicole Cheek, DDS, FACD, Immediate Past President Marcus A. Ware, JD, Executive Director

The National Dental Association promotes oral health equity among people of color by harnessing the collective power of its members, advocating for the needs of and mentoring dental students of color, and raising the profile of the profession in our communities.

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Sponsors

Congratulations to our President-Elect!!

Dr. Jowhar Brown on his 40 under 40 nomination.

We wish you continued success!!

Congratulations!

WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU, DR. EVANS! FROM, YOUR LOVING FAMILY