My name is Kari Brennan, and I am excited to apply for the Heart to Hands Award. I reside 40 miles from Meeker, Colorado, on our six-generation cattle ranch, where I am raising two amazing children with my husband. In 2006, I graduated from Colorado Northwestern Community College with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Dental Hygiene, and for the past 18 years, I have been fortunate to work in a variety of clinical settings—ranging from private practices to public health and school programs.
Currently, I have the honor of running my own independent dental hygiene practice, which has become a cornerstone of our community. Nine years ago, I confidently decided to launch my practice in Meeker. At that time, our town had only two dentists—one with an established hygienist and the other who managed hygiene himself. Commuting up to 80 miles for work became impractical once I became a mother, and I wanted to serve the community where I grew up and where my children would attend school. So, my passion for dental hygiene propelled me to research and develop my own practice, and I haven’t looked back since.
What truly drives me is the joy of helping others. Serving my community and providing essential dental care, especially in our rural area, brings me immense satisfaction. Building my practice from the ground up and watching it thrive has been a labor of love. I thrive on the moments when I can make a significant difference in a patient’s life. Recently, a mother reached out about her son, who had broken his front tooth. I was grateful to be available to assess the situation and provide interim care until he could see a dentist for further treatment. Their appreciation was heartwarming and reaffirmed why I love what I do.
Moreover, my engagement with the community goes beyond just dental care. I actively participate in events such as handing out toothbrushes at our Halloween celebration, organizing vibrant floats for parades, and conducting dental health screenings at local preschools. I find joy in spreading awareness and promoting healthy habits in a way that allows me to connect with families, promote my business, and make dental health accessible in a fun and inviting way.
I remain committed to my profession through active participation in my state and national dental hygiene associations. The inspiration I draw from fellow hygienists, many of whom are also business owners, keeps my ambition alive. I want to lead by example, demonstrating that women can successfully navigate entrepreneurship while prioritizing community service.
Thank you for considering my application. I am passionate about continuing to serve and uplift my community through dental hygiene, and I would be honored to be recognized with the Heart to Hands Award.
Sincerely,
Kari Brennan, RDH