Dr. Melissa Ivers

Dr. Melissa Ivers is a distinguished figure in the field of dental medicine, known for her significant contributions to healthcare, education, and leadership. Holding the titles of DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) and MBA (Master of Business Administration), Dr. Ivers has established herself as a respected professional and educator.
Dr. Ivers earned her DMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in May 2009, showcasing early dedication to the field of dentistry. Following this, she pursued an MBA from the University of New Mexico, graduating with honors in December 2016. Her dual expertise in dental medicine and business administration positions her as a versatile and knowledgeable leader.
Throughout her career, Dr. Ivers has held various impactful roles, including serving as the Program Director for the Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency Program and as the Associate Chief Medical Officer at the University of New Mexico Medical Group. Her commitment to education is evident through her roles as an Associate Professor and Clinical Educator in the Division of Dental Services, Department of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Ivers' dedication to excellence is reflected in her academic achievements, including recognition as a top general dentist by Albuquerque The Magazine and her listing among Albuquerque's Top Dentists in various categories. She is also a ten-year member of the American Dental Association and has received numerous accolades for her clinical performance and service quality.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Ivers is passionate about recognizing and supporting individuals who have faced adversity. This commitment is exemplified through the Dr. Melissa Ivers Scholarship for Overcoming Adversity, a $1,000 award presented through an essay contest. The scholarship reflects her belief in the transformative power of personal narratives.
Dr. Melissa Ivers continues to make significant contributions to the field of dental medicine, inspiring future professionals and advocating for the celebration of resilience in the face of life's challenges.
==Early Life and Career==
Dr. Melissa Ivers' journey into the world of dentistry and healthcare began with a foundation rooted in education and a passion for making a positive impact. Born and raised in USA, Dr. Ivers displayed an early fascination with the intersection of medicine, oral health, and patient care.
===Educational Pursuits===
Dr. Ivers embarked on her academic journey by earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA, majoring in Premedical/Psychology/Art History. This diverse educational background laid the groundwork for her multidisciplinary approach to healthcare.
Driven by a desire to further her understanding of dental medicine, she pursued a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, graduating in May 2009. This marked the beginning of her professional journey in the field of dentistry.
===Residency and Early Practice===
Following the completion of her DMD, Dr. Ivers continued her training through an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at the University of New Mexico from July 2009 to June 2010. This residency program allowed her to deepen her clinical skills and gain valuable experience in various aspects of general dentistry.
Dr. Ivers then entered the professional arena, joining Emergency Dental Care USA as a Lead Dentist from November 2009 to September 2013. During this period, she demonstrated her commitment to providing high-quality dental care and honed her skills in emergency dental services.
===Academic and Leadership Roles===
Recognized for her expertise, Dr. Ivers assumed roles at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, where she has made significant contributions as an Associate Professor and Clinical Educator. Her leadership skills were further showcased through roles such as Deputy Chief of the Division of Dental Services and as the Program Director for the Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency Program.
===Continued Impact===
Dr. Melissa Ivers' early life and career laid the groundwork for a trajectory marked by educational achievements, hands-on experience, and a commitment to excellence in dental medicine. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring dental professionals and reflects a dedication to continuous learning, clinical proficiency, and leadership within the healthcare community.
==Career==
Dr. Melissa Ivers has emerged as a trailblazer in the field of dental medicine, showcasing a dynamic and impactful career marked by leadership, educational excellence, and a commitment to advancing oral healthcare. Her professional journey spans a diverse range of roles, each contributing to her reputation as a respected clinician, educator, and advocate for patient well-being.
===Associate Chief Medical Officer===
Currently serving as the Associate Chief Medical Officer at the University of New Mexico Medical Group since October 2018, Dr. Ivers plays a pivotal role in shaping healthcare strategies, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care. Her leadership has been instrumental in aligning clinical practices with the latest advancements in dental medicine.
===Interim Medical Director and Program Director===
Dr. Ivers served as the Interim Medical Director for Locum Tenens at the University of New Mexico Medical Group from September 2023 to January 2024, demonstrating her adaptability and expertise in managing diverse healthcare roles. In addition, her role as the Program Director for the Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency Program showcased her dedication to nurturing the next generation of dental professionals.
===Academic and Clinical Excellence===
As an Associate Professor and Clinical Educator in the Division of Dental Services, Department of Dental Medicine, Dr. Ivers has made significant contributions to dental education. Her passion for teaching and clinical expertise has left an indelible mark on students, shaping the future of dental medicine.
===Recognition and Awards===
Dr. Ivers' commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. She has consistently received accolades, including being voted the #1 General Dentist by Albuquerque The Magazine and being listed among Albuquerque's Top Dentists in various categories. These recognitions underscore her impact on patient care and her standing among peers in the dental community.
===Continued Clinical Practice===
While contributing to academia and leadership, Dr. Ivers continues to maintain a clinical practice, currently serving as an Associate Dentist at High Country Dental since August 2016. Her hands-on involvement in patient care ensures a grounded perspective and a deep understanding of the evolving needs of dental practice.
Dr. Melissa Ivers' career is a testament to her unwavering dedication to the advancement of dental medicine, education, and patient advocacy. Through her diverse roles and achievements, she continues to leave a lasting impact on the field and inspire future generations of dental professionals.
==Philanthropy and Efforts In the fields of Dentistry, Special Needs Patients And Scholarship for Overcoming Adversity==
Dr. Melissa Ivers extends her impact beyond clinical and academic realms through notable philanthropic efforts, particularly focusing on dentistry, special needs patients, and the empowerment of individuals overcoming adversity.
===Advocacy for Special Needs Patients===
Dr. Ivers has been a vocal advocate for the dental health and well-being of special needs patients. Her efforts in this realm extend beyond clinical practice, as evidenced by her certification in Developmental Disabilities/Dental Special Needs from the New Mexico Department of Health in June 2010. This certification underscores her commitment to providing inclusive and specialized dental care, ensuring that individuals with unique needs receive the attention and support necessary for optimal oral health.
===Scholarship for Overcoming Adversity===
Driven by a passion for recognizing resilience and triumph, Dr. Ivers established the Dr. Melissa Ivers Scholarship for Overcoming Adversity. This $1,000 scholarship, awarded through an essay contest, is a manifestation of her belief in the transformative power of personal narratives. The scholarship serves as a platform to celebrate and support individuals who have faced adversity, encouraging them to share their stories and inspiring others on their journeys of resilience.
===Commitment to Community Outreach===
Dr. Ivers actively engages in community outreach initiatives, leveraging her expertise to contribute to the oral health of underserved populations. Her involvement in philanthropic endeavors reflects a dedication to improving access to dental care and promoting oral health education within the broader community.
===Recognition of Contributions===
The impact of Dr. Ivers' philanthropic endeavors is further recognized through various awards and accolades, including being listed among Albuquerque's Top Dentists and receiving patient recognition awards for excellent service and quality of care. These acknowledgments underscore the positive influence her efforts have had on the community and individuals in need.
Dr. Melissa Ivers' philanthropic initiatives in dentistry, special needs advocacy, and scholarship support highlight her commitment to making a difference beyond the confines of traditional healthcare settings. Through these efforts, she continues to embody the principles of compassion, inclusivity, and empowerment within the field of dental medicine and beyond.
==References==
==External links==
* Personal website
* Company website
* Dr. Melissa Ivers scholarship
* Dr. Melissa Ivers on Medium
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* Dr. Melissa Ivers on Facebook
Category:American physicians
Category:American dentists
Category:University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine alumni