Karen M. Nelson

Compassionate academic leader with strong focus on accreditation, program management, and continuous improvement. Expertise in leading data collection, analysis, and reporting to inform academic planning and program evaluation, while aligning outcomes with accreditation standards. Skilled in fostering collaboration across departments and engaging with key stakeholders, including faculty, leadership, and students to drive program effectiveness and student success. Adept at developing assessment tools and processes to support curriculum improvement and educational research initiatives. Experienced in monitoring and tracking accreditation compliance, preparing self-study reports, and coordinating accreditation reviews and site visits. Committed to leveraging data to inform decision-making, enhance program quality, and ensure ongoing compliance with accreditation standards. Dedicated to developing and delivering training and education programs to support continuous improvement and institutional goals.

• Dental Hygiene License, Florida, 2026
• Dental Hygiene License, Texas, 2025
• Advanced Leadership Course, 2018
• Local Anesthesia Certification, 2014
• Expanded Dental Functions Certification, 2014
• Master Instructor Certification, 2008
• CCAF Instructor Certification Level II, 2008

Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal (3), 2015 59th Dental Squadron SNCO of the Year, 2014 59th Dental Squadron NCO of the Year, 2014 Faith C. Van Professionalism Award, 2011 AETC Outstanding NCO of the Year, 2011 17th Medical Group NCO of the Year, 2011 Distinguished Graduate Award, NCOA, 2004 Academic Achievement Award, ALS

• American Dental Hygienists' Association2014 – Present
• San Antonio Dental Hygienists' Association2014 – Present
• Sigma Phi Alpha Dental Hygiene Honor Society2014 – Present

• Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, 2018
• Training Supervisor Course, AETC, JBSA-Lackland, Texas, 2017
• Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation (ADDIE), 2017
• Dental Plans and Programs, 2016
• Basic Instructor Course-Refresher, 2016
• Civilian Personnel Management Course, 2015
• Non-Commissioned Officer Academy 2011
• Principles of Instructional Systems Development, 2006
• Basic Instructor Course, AETC, JBSA-Lackland, Texas, 2005
• Airman Leadership School, 2003
• Dental Assistant Apprentice Course, 2000

Preventive Dentistry Leader, United States Air Force, San Antonio, TX

• Supervised operative and preventive dentistry clinics, supporting19 dentists and45 technicians in delivering care to13,000 patients annually.
• Enhanced team proficiency in oral prophylaxis techniques, ensuring adherence to quality standards and superior patient outcomes.
• Directed the Department of Defense Smokeless Tobacco Study, coordinating data collection for1,200 patients across8 clinics, contributing to critical research initiatives.
• Managed water fluoridation programs and analyzed population health data, delivering nutritional, prenatal, and tobacco education briefings to enhance community well-being.
• Planned and executed community outreach events, including Children's Dental Health Month initiatives and Military Veterans' Health Fairs, promoting awareness and access to dental care.

Instructor, Dental Assistant Apprentice Course, United States Air Force, San Antonio, TX

• Provided technical training to U.S. Air Force personnel in dental assisting, equipping them to deliver exceptional care in clinical settings.
• Instructed over1,500 dental assistants through a rigorous48-day apprentice program over five years, ensuring skill development and compliance with standards.
• Taught comprehensive coursework on dental procedures and infection control protocols, preparing students for professional practice.
• Conducted evaluations through academic and performance-based assessments while offering guidance through academic and personal counseling.
• Maintained structured classroom environment, addressing student concerns to support positive learning atmosphere.
• Oversaw $90K budget, managing inventory and controlling expenses to sustain operational effectiveness.

Academic Appointment(s):

• Faculty Appointment, USU, CAHS, 2018 – Present
• Adjunct Faculty, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas, 2014 -2018
• Director, Air Force Oral Hygiene Course, JBSA-Lackland, Texas, 2016 –2019
• Instructor, Dental Assistant Apprentice Course, Sheppard AFB, Texas,2005 –2009

Clinical/Clinical Support Appointment(s):

• Flight Chief, Periodontics Residency Flight, 59th Dental Training Squadron, Lackland, Texas, 2015 –2016
• NCOIC, Preventive Dentistry, 59th Dental Squadron, JBSA-Lackland, Texas, 2014 –2015
• Dental Assistant, 17th Medical Group, Goodfellow AFB, Texas, 2009 –2012
• Dental Assistant, 66th Medical Group, Hanscom AFB, MA, 2000 –2005

• Software: Microsoft Office | SharePoint | Google Workspace
• Operating Systems: Mac/Microsoft Windows
• Academic/LMS systems: Blackboard, Canvas, TTMS, ATRRS, CMS, CeTARS