Our Team

Andrea Arteaga
President 

Hi! I'm Andrea the very first President of Project Smile UCSC. I am a fourth year Latin American and Latino Studies major with a Biology minor. In the future I hope to be a pediatric dentist with my own practice. Though for now I wanted to start this nonprofit here in Santa Cruz because growing up my family and I experienced the struggles behind getting affordable dental care access, essentially only going to the dentist if there were serious problems. This club is a resource that I wished my family could've have and I am happy to provide that support to people with similar stories to mine.

Mary Mai

Vice President

My name is Mary and I'm currently a junior at UC Santa Cruz majoring in Biology. I'm planning on pursuing a career in dental hygiene and I decided to join Project Smile because I believe everyone deserves affordable dental care. Growing up in a low income household where my parents could not afford oral health services due to cost inspired me to go into the dental field and join a club that aligned with my values! I hope I can make a positive contribution to the Santa Cruz community with Project Smile.

Alyssa Benttendorf

Operations Assistant

Hi! My name is Alyssa Bettendorf, I'm a third year Biology major. I joined Project Smile to help provide dental hygiene support to our community members here in Santa Cruz! I am super excited to be on the path to become a pediatric dentist :)

Tarah Lee

Secretary

Hi! My name is Tarah and I’m a junior majoring in Microbiology.  Through Project Smile, I hope to inspire my surrounding community into taking initiative toward their oral health through education, access, and compassion.

Tirada Phomin

Treasurer

Hi! My name is Tirada Phomin, a fourth year student at UC Santa cruz, majoring in Biochemistry. As a first generation college student, I am passionate about healthcare accessibility for underserved communities. I aim to become a dentist dedicated to improving health equity and expanding access to preventative dental care.

Christina Panoff

Resource Director

Hi! My name is Christina, I am a second year and the Resource Director for Project Smile. I joined the club because I love volunteering with kids, and it also connects closely with my goal of becoming a dentist in the future.

Sarah Yeo

Co-Public Relations Officer

Hello! My name is Sarah Yeo and I am currently a second year at UCSC. I believe everyone should have access to oral health resources and education which is exactly what Project Smile pushes for. In my free time I enjoy taking walks while listening to music, spending time with friends, and explore new places!

Carson Hailey

Co-Public Relations Officer

Hi I'm Carson, I'm a fourth year Global and Community Health major. As a pre-dental student I see the value in universal access to oral care and education, which is why I joined Project Smile. I am excited to work with the Santa Cruz community and provide assistance to those in need.