Phanisia Bland
Digital Technology Supervisor
Phanisia joined the Navy to attend the dental assistant program in 1985. She has been involved in the dental industry since. She served as an assistant for several years before joining Patterson Dental in 1996. Teaching technology to dental offices for 24 years is what led her to join our faculty here at LMU. Phanisia has lived in a few different states but decided TN was the most beautiful and moved here 2 years ago. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and spending time with her family.
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Liz was born and raised in East Tennessee. She has been a dental assistant since 1993. Liz has certifications in Coronal Polishing, Sealants, and Nitrous Monitoring. She joined our LMU Dental team in June 2024. She loves helping people improve their smiles and confidence. In her spare time, Liz enjoys cooking and spending time with her husband Jeff.
Devin Cradic earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from East Tennessee State University. He began his career in dentistry in 2017, becoming the Dental Director for Appalachian Miles for Smiles. Devin joined Lincoln Memorial University in 2022 and is currently a Clinical Supervisor in Kingsport, TN.
Teresa has worked in all areas of a dental practice and has worked alongside many dental specialties as well as taught Dental Assistant classes for 29 years. In her 29 years, she maintained her passion while being a flight attendant and came right back to my love of the art of Dentistry and helping patients see their oral health has a major impact on their overall health. Teresa has been with LMU dental school since August 2022 and her goal is to work alongside the Dental professionals to be just a mustard seed in helping to be part of history with Lincoln Memorial University. Teresa currently works alongside Dr. Patel and is looking forward to working with future dental professionals to achieve their legacy.
Jennifer Harmon earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in May, 2000. She has spent the majority of her career working in private practice until accepting a position with LMU in 2022. Jennifer is part of our phenomenal dental team in Kingsport, TN where she travels with Appalachian Miles for Smiles providing dental hygiene services in East TN and SW VA.
Malea completed the dental assisting program at LMU CDM in November 2023 and immediately started her career as an RDA at LMU-CDM in December 2023. She loves having a positive impact on patient experience. When not at work, Malea likes spending time with her family and friends.
Aprile Mason began working at LMU in July 2008 as the Executive Assistant for the VP of Academic Affairs. In 2014, she went on to become Executive Assistant for the VP of Finance, 2017 Fixed Asset Coordinator, and 2019 Purchasing Coordinator. In December 2023, Aprile joined the LMU College of Dental Medicine as Examination Services Coordinator. In 2014 she graduated from LMU with a Bachelor of Science in Management and Leadership and in 2016 she earned her Master of Business Administration. Aprile was born and raised in Claiborne County, Tennessee where she lives with her husband and family.
Tammy began her dental journey 35 years ago when she graduated from the dental assisting program at Old Dominion University. She has worked in both general dentistry and oral surgery, as well as team lead for military reserve dental exams in anticipation of deployment. She is a native of West Virginia and moved to the Knoxville area in 2020. She has been with LMU College of Dental Medicine since the fall of 2022 and is excited to be working with the dental students. She enjoys hiking in the mountains with her husband and spending time with her family.
Dawn Mullens is a dedicated and skilled dental hygienist with 30 years of experience in providing comprehensive dental care and hygiene services. A graduate of Roane State Community College in dental Hygiene, Dawn is passionate about educating patients on the importance of oral health and implementing preventative dental care practices. She has an Associate of Arts Degree in Theology from Clear Creek Bible College and an Associate of Science Degree from Southeast Community College. Dawn is currently employed as the Dental Hygiene Clinical Administrative Assistance for Lincoln Memorial University where she provides administrative resources to students and patients regarding the dental hygiene clinic and the operations thereof. She is currently enrolled in East Tennessee State University obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene which will be completed in December 2024.
Wendi Pursel joined Lincoln Memorial University in 2020 as the PA Program Administrative Coordinator. She moved to LMU-CDM in 2023 as the Student Service Coordinator and then transitioned into her current position of Director of Career Services. She is now the primary contact person with the DMD Program for student applications throughout the application and admission process. Ms. Pursel works in the areas of recruiting, admissions, advancement, alumni relations, and event planning, bringing a culture of excellence to each position held. She enjoys working with students, SGA, and helping students navigate the steps to begin their professional journey. Wendi is a USN Veteran and went to Mountain Empire Community College where she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Marsha has been in dentistry for 20 years. She enjoys helping others and bringing a change in their lives. In her free time, she loves to bake and spend time with her family. Most of all are the joys of seeing her grandchildren as they grow.