Alicia Melendez RDA, CDA, AAS, BS - Founder & School Director
With over 36 years of experience in the dental profession, Alicia is passionate about educating and inspiring the next generation of dental professionals. As a nationally certified dental assistant, she has dedicated more than three decades to teaching, developing, and leading dental assistant education programs across the country.
Throug
With over 36 years of experience in the dental profession, Alicia is passionate about educating and inspiring the next generation of dental professionals. As a nationally certified dental assistant, she has dedicated more than three decades to teaching, developing, and leading dental assistant education programs across the country.
Throughout her career, Alicia has served as an Instructor, Program Director, and National Academic Dean for career colleges, where she has developed innovative curricula, led faculty teams, and helped thousands of students launch successful careers in dentistry. She is widely recognized for her expertise in curriculum development, educational leadership, and guiding schools through state approval and regulatory compliance.
Alicia has also served as a subject matter expert and content reviewer for Modern Dental Assisting, the industry's leading dental assisting textbook published by Elsevier. Her commitment to excellence in dental education and patient care is the foundation of Aspire Dental Assistant Academy, where she is dedicated to providing students with the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on skills they need to succeed in today's dental profession.
Outside of dentistry, Alicia enjoys spending time with her family and three dogs, exploring the great outdoors, hiking, traveling, and continually seeking new adventures. She believes that learning never stops and brings that same enthusiasm and passion into every classroom and every student interaction.
Julieth "Julie" Lewis RDH, BS - Regional Support
Julie brings more than 30 years of experience in dentistry as a Registered Dental Hygienist, clinical researcher, mentor, and educational leader. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about advancing dental education, supporting clinical excellence, and helping students and professionals build confidence in their skills.
As Aspir
Julie brings more than 30 years of experience in dentistry as a Registered Dental Hygienist, clinical researcher, mentor, and educational leader. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about advancing dental education, supporting clinical excellence, and helping students and professionals build confidence in their skills.
As Aspire Dental Assistant Academy's Regional Support Director for Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Julie works closely with instructors, students, and partner practices to ensure every learner receives an exceptional educational experience. Her dedication to mentorship and hands-on training has made her a trusted leader and valued resource within the dental community.
Outside of dentistry, Julie enjoys spending time with her beautiful grandson, tending to her garden and houseplants, and embracing the simple joys of nature. She believes that nurturing growth—whether in people or plants—is one of life's greatest rewards.
Victoria Melendez
Victoria is Aspire Dental Assistant Academy's Community Relations & Outreach Coordinator for our Washington locations. With experience as a dental assistant, dental office executive, and billing specialist, Victoria brings a broad understanding of the dental profession and is passionate about introducing others to the many career opportu
Victoria is Aspire Dental Assistant Academy's Community Relations & Outreach Coordinator for our Washington locations. With experience as a dental assistant, dental office executive, and billing specialist, Victoria brings a broad understanding of the dental profession and is passionate about introducing others to the many career opportunities available in dentistry.
Victoria works closely with high schools, workforce development organizations, community agencies, and local businesses to build partnerships that connect individuals with careers in dental assisting. She coordinates Aspire's participation in career fairs, career exploration events, classroom presentations, and other community outreach initiatives throughout Washington.
If your school, organization, or community group would like Aspire Dental Assistant Academy to attend a career fair, participate in a career day, host a guest speaker, or provide information about careers in dentistry, Victoria would love to connect with you.
To schedule a career fair, guest speaker, classroom presentation, or community outreach event, please contact Victoria at:
📧 victoria.aspiredental@gmail.com
Meet our Instructors!!
Lakewood- Jamie
Havertown - Roxanne
Lakewood- Jamie
Jamie brings more than 14 years of experience to Aspire Dental Assistant Academy, with a background as both a dental assistant and office manager. Passionate about education and mentorship, she is dedicated to helping students build confidence, develop clinical skills, and succeed as they begin their careers in dentistry. Jamie enjoys cr
Jamie brings more than 14 years of experience to Aspire Dental Assistant Academy, with a background as both a dental assistant and office manager. Passionate about education and mentorship, she is dedicated to helping students build confidence, develop clinical skills, and succeed as they begin their careers in dentistry. Jamie enjoys creating a supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged every step of the way.
Outside of the dental office, Jamie loves traveling, hiking, paddle boarding, and attending concerts. She is excited to be part of your journey and looks forward to helping you achieve your goals as a future dental professional.
Burien - Amber
Havertown - Roxanne
Lakewood- Jamie
Amber has over 25 years of experience in the dental field, with a diverse background as a dental assistant, patient care coordinator, and financial coordinator. She currently practices full-time in a thriving periodontal specialty office, where she enjoys helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles through education and exceptiona
Amber has over 25 years of experience in the dental field, with a diverse background as a dental assistant, patient care coordinator, and financial coordinator. She currently practices full-time in a thriving periodontal specialty office, where she enjoys helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles through education and exceptional care. Passionate about dentistry, Amber loves staying current with new technology and witnessing the incredible advancements the profession has made over the years.
Outside of dentistry, Amber is a proud mom of two children and shares her home with four dogs and a cat, who keep her busy and entertained. She is excited to mentor the next generation of dental assistants by sharing her knowledge, experience, and passion for the profession, helping students build the skills and confidence needed for successful careers in dentistry.
Havertown - Roxanne
Havertown - Roxanne
Havertown - Roxanne
Roxanne has been working in the dental field for 10+ years, and teaching for the last 3. While she loves working chair-side as an EFDA, and all of her patients. Her passion is teaching new aspiring assistants, and helping them achieve the skill set they need for their future career. When she isn’t in the office or classroom, she’s spending time with her family, and traveling.
Havertown - Destiny
Havertown - Destiny
Havertown - Roxanne
Destiny has over six years of experience in pediatric dentistry, with a background in chairside assisting, digital radiography, sterilization, patient care, and front office operations. Her well-rounded experience allows her to bring practical knowledge and real-world insight to the classroom.
Outside of dentistry, Destiny is a proud mom
Destiny has over six years of experience in pediatric dentistry, with a background in chairside assisting, digital radiography, sterilization, patient care, and front office operations. Her well-rounded experience allows her to bring practical knowledge and real-world insight to the classroom.
Outside of dentistry, Destiny is a proud mom to her toddler and enjoys spending time with her dog, cat, and tending to her gardens in New Jersey. She is passionate about helping students build the confidence and skills needed for successful careers as dental assistants.
Havertown - Jessica
Havertown - Destiny
Havertown - Jessica
Jessica has been working as an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) since 2009 and is currently furthering her education by pursuing a degree in dental hygiene. She is passionate about helping patients feel comfortable, building lasting relationships, and providing exceptional dental care. With years of hands-on clinical experien
Jessica has been working as an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) since 2009 and is currently furthering her education by pursuing a degree in dental hygiene. She is passionate about helping patients feel comfortable, building lasting relationships, and providing exceptional dental care. With years of hands-on clinical experience, Jessica enjoys sharing her knowledge and helping future dental assistants develop the skills and confidence needed for a successful career.
Outside of dentistry, Jessica is a proud mom to her two children. She enjoys reading, hiking, boating, relaxing at the beach, and taking walks with her dog. Her caring personality and dedication to education make her a supportive and encouraging mentor for her students.
Welcome to Aspire Dental Assistant Academy!
Welcome to Aspire Dental Assistant Academy!
Aspire Dental Assistant Academy is dedicated to empowering individuals and dental practices through comprehensive training and educational support. We offer entry-level dental assistant programs that provide hands-on experience and the practical skills needed for success in today’s dental field. Additionally, our continuing education for dental assistants helps current professionals advance their careers and stay up-to-date with industry standards.
For dentists looking to expand their practice by training the next generation of dental assistants, Aspire provides tailored support for curriculum development and in-office training programs. From developing effective curricula to navigating state licensing requirements, we make it simple to establish a successful educational program within your practice.
Whether you're starting your career, advancing your skills, or looking to build a training program at your dental office, Aspire Dental Assistant Academy is your trusted partner in dental education.
