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, I’m Tarah and I’m a third year MCD Biology major. I’m very excited to serve on Project Smile’s board as Secretary this year and can’t wait to work with you to bring dental education to our local community!

Tirada Phomin

Treasurer

Hi! My name is Tirda 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, and I’m 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.