SNDA Leadership

Alesha Harris

SNDA Representative to NDA Liaison

Alesha Harris

University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry Class of 2028 Texas

My name is Dr. Alesha Harris, and I am a third-year dental student, Class of 2028, at the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry. Over the next two years, I will have the privilege of serving as your Student National Dental Association (SNDA) Representative to the National Dental Association (NDA) Foundation. I am excited to work alongside our SNDA student leaders and the NDA delegates and trustees to strengthen the connection between our organizations and create meaningful opportunities for our members.

Originally from Texas, I am a true southern belle, and I have always prioritized education. I earned my bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Dillard University before completing both my Master's and PhD in Inorganic Chemistry at the University of North Texas. I have served as an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Texas College, and as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Prior to dental school, I proudly served for over eight years as a Scientist Officer in the U.S. Public Health Service, where I developed a passion for leadership, service, and advancing health equity. Outside of dentistry, I enjoy traveling, nature walks, volleyball, pickleball, community service, mentoring future health professionals, and spending time with family and friends.

As your Representative to the NDA Foundation, my goal is to strengthen the bridge between SNDA and the NDA by creating opportunities for students to engage with the organization throughout the year—not just at the annual convention. I am committed to increasing collaboration through community outreach, mentorship, scholarship and research initiatives, professional development workshops, and networking with local NDA chapters. Together, we can cultivate lifelong involvement in SNDA and NDA, empower the next generation of underrepresented dentists, and continue advancing our shared mission of excellence, advocacy, and service.

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Member Voices

Member Testimonials

Sydnie Taylor

Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine Illinois - Class of 2026

“After being accepted to dental school, uncertainty clouded my thoughts about the experiences, connections, and opportunities awaiting me among 140 classmates. Learning about Midwestern CDMI's inaugural SNDA chapter in my first year brought profound reassurance. SNDA represents a sanctuary, a platform for service, an advocacy realm, and a networking hub, among other things. This organization has catalyzed significant positive change for individuals with backgrounds like mine, and I'm immensely grateful for the chance to contribute to its enduring legacy. Through SNDA, I've found not only a supportive community but also opportunities for personal and professional growth. Its emphasis on diversity and inclusion has fostered an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. SNDA has truly enriched my dental school experience, providing me with lifelong connections and a sense of belonging that I cherish deeply. I am excited to continue my journey with SNDA and see the impact we can make together in the future.”

James Bennett III

University of Michigan School of Dentistry - Class of 2026

“It is hard to encapsulate what SNDA exactly means to me by using only a few words. During my dental school journey, SNDA has not only helped to make me a better scholar, but it has provided me with the resources and opportunities to make all my dreams into a reality. Through the support of SNDA, I was able to establish the first USNDA chapter on the campus of Michigan State University that provided social, leadership, academic, and volunteer opportunities to its members. I was able to attend the SNDA national conference where I got to make connections, meet fellow colleagues who look like me, and become more enthralled with this career path that I have chosen. SNDA to me is about building lifelong relationships with individuals who become like family. It is about supporting one another to achieve any goals you may have. It is about a community built on the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion. Lastly, SNDA has helped mold me into the thought-provoking student clinician that I try to be today. I have been able to see first-hand where SNDA has taken me so far and I can only imagine where it will take me during the pursuit of my future aspirations.”

Heywan Gessesse

University of Maryland School of Dentistry - Class of 2024

“Being a part of SNDA has undoubtedly been a pivotal aspect of my dental school journey. As I embarked on my first year, nerves tingled about starting this adventure miles away from home, but SNDA swiftly transformed into my comforting home away from home. Within SNDA, I discovered more than just a group; I found a close-knit community, unwavering support, invaluable mentorship, opportunities for personal growth through leadership roles, and the foundation for lifelong friendships. Moreover, the inclusiveness and well-versed members of SNDA played an integral role in shaping my dental school experience. Their openness and diverse perspectives helped foster an environment where everyone felt valued and supported, contributing to the richness of our collective journey. These experiences have deeply enriched my time in dental school, shaping me in ways I never imagined. For these reasons, and countless more, I will forever be grateful for SNDA and the remarkable family it has bestowed upon me.”

Zack Thomas

Tufts University School of Dentistry - Class of 2025

“SNDA has been a guiding light throughout my dental career, offering invaluable support and opportunities that have shaped my journey in profound ways. Amidst the rigorous demands of dental school, SNDA serves as my anchor, keeping me rooted and connected to fellow individuals who share similar backgrounds and experiences in dentistry. Through SNDA, I've found a space where I can authentically be myself, surrounded by a welcoming community that embraces diversity and inclusion. The mentorship programs offered by SNDA have provided me with guidance, encouragement, and invaluable insights from seasoned professionals who have walked similar paths. As a young African American man navigating the field of dentistry, SNDA has provided me with an immeasurable network of support and camaraderie. SNDA has been instrumental in shaping my identity as a dental professional and has equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and support network needed to succeed in this challenging yet rewarding field.”

Alesha Harris

Alesha Harris

Member Testimonials

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