Leanne's ability to build relationships with both coworkers and patients is a testament to her strong communication skills and dedication to her work.

Leanne Cross is an experienced dental hygienist with over 16 years of practice in the field. She holds an associate degree in applied arts and science specializing in dental hygiene from Grand Rapids Community College and is certified in local anesthesia and nitrous oxide administration. She is currently pursuing further education at the University of Michigan’s School of Dentistry, with the goal of advancing her skills and making a greater impact on patient care. Leanne’s extensive experience includes roles as a lead registered dental hygienist at Dental Associates of West Michigan and a dental hygienist at Lavender Dental of Dutton, where she has been instrumental in patient care, preventive and periodontal treatments, and patient education.

Throughout her career, Leanne has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a strong commitment to improving the quality of dental care. At Dental Associates of West Michigan, she trained, mentored, and managed a team of hygienists, implementing a more consistent periodontal protocol across the practice. Her initiative in seeking additional education and mentoring her team has elevated patient care standards in the offices where she has worked. One of her supervisors described her as “a natural leader who continuously seeks opportunities to help the office grow.” Leanne’s ability to build relationships with both coworkers and patients is a testament to her strong communication skills and dedication to her work. She is known for her positive attitude, adaptability, and eagerness to learn new techniques and methods in dental care.

Leanne’s vision for the future involves not only advancing her own skills but also contributing to the broader dental community by continuing to mentor new hygienists and improving patient care standards. Her passion for dentistry and leadership abilities make her an exceptional candidate for further academic and professional growth.

CEW+ commends Leanne’s commitment to continuous self-improvement and names her a Margaret Dow Towsley Scholar.