Board Of Directors

Shanna Mehta

Founder & President

Shanna Mehta is the Founder of Dental Equity Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to restorative dental care for individuals facing financial hardship.

With more than 20 years of experience in the dental industry, Shanna has established a strong foundation and reputation in restorative dentistry. Her career has given her extensive knowledge across the clinical, laboratory, technological, and business sides of the industry, along with a deep understanding of what it takes to deliver quality restorative care. Through her work with dentists, dental laboratories, technicians, and industry partners, she has built the expertise and relationships that have become instrumental in bringing the vision for Dental Equity Project to life.

She has also seen the difficult reality that many people face when the dental care they need is simply beyond their financial means. For some, the challenge is not a lack of need, but a lack of access. That realization inspired Shanna to create Dental Equity Project—a way to bring together dentists, dental laboratories, and community partners to help make restorative care possible for those who might otherwise go without it.

Giving back has always been at the heart of who Shanna is. Whether volunteering in her local community or traveling abroad, she seeks opportunities to connect with people, lend a helping hand, and make a meaningful difference. She believes that even the smallest act of kindness can create lasting change.

For Shanna, dentistry has always been about people. She believes that restoring a smile can help restore confidence and quality of life—and that everyone deserves access to that opportunity, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Through her leadership, compassion, and commitment to serving others, Shanna continues to build meaningful partnerships and bring together the knowledge, experience, and resources of the dental community to help make restorative care accessible to those who need it most.

Ericka Swensson

Director

Ericka Swensson is a passionate advocate for philanthropy and community impact, dedicated to creating opportunities that improve the lives of others. As Senior Director of Development at the University of San Diego, she brings more than a decade of experience building meaningful partnerships, advancing charitable initiatives, and connecting generous supporters with causes that strengthen communities.

Throughout her career, Ericka has led annual and major gift fundraising efforts, capital campaigns, donor and community relations, community engagement programs, and board management. Prior to joining the University of San Diego, she held leadership roles in corporate and foundation relations and major gifts, helping organizations expand their reach and deepen their impact. She also served as a faculty member at the University of Southern California, where she taught History, Religious Studies, and Gender Studies, inspiring students through education and mentorship.

Ericka's commitment to giving back extends beyond her professional career. She believes in the power of service, collaboration, and philanthropy to create lasting, meaningful change. Whether supporting nonprofit organizations, engaging with community initiatives, or fostering relationships that inspire generosity, she is driven by a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. She is honored to serve on the Board of Directors for the Dental Equity Project and to support its mission of improving oral health equity through compassion, collaboration, and community partnership.

Tammy Tsai

Director

Tammy Tsai's passion for dentistry began long before it became her career. Growing up in her family's dental laboratory, she spent countless weekends and after-school hours learning the artistry and precision behind restorative dentistry. Inspired by her father, a Certified Dental Technician, she developed not only exceptional technical skills but also a deep appreciation for the profound impact a healthy smile can have on someone's life.

With nearly 13 years of experience in the dental laboratory industry, Tammy has established herself as a respected leader in digital dentistry and currently serves as CAD/CAM Director. Her expertise spans advanced restorative workflows, digital design, and precision manufacturing, where she is recognized for her meticulous attention to detail, commitment to excellence, and passion for embracing innovative technology. She believes that every restoration represents more than a dental procedure—it is an opportunity to improve a person's comfort, function, and quality of life.

Tammy has always believed that compassion should be at the heart of healthcare. Throughout her life, she has found purpose in serving others and giving back to her community, making Dental Equity Project a mission that deeply resonates with her values. She is honored to use her technical knowledge and years of experience to help make life-changing dental care accessible to individuals and families facing financial hardship.

She is proud to be part of an organization dedicated to ensuring that more people have the opportunity to experience the lasting impact of compassionate, high-quality dental care.

Kristine Swensson

Treasurer & Director

Kristine Swensson serves as Treasurer of the Dental Equity Project, bringing more than 20 years of executive leadership experience in finance, strategic planning, budgeting, and public administration. Throughout her distinguished career with California's Superior Courts, she has led complex financial operations, revenue management, forecasting, financial reporting, audits, legislative compliance, and long-term fiscal planning. Her extensive expertise in executive finance, organizational leadership, and operational strategy has been instrumental in supporting large public institutions while promoting accountability, innovation, and sustainable growth.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kristine is passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. She believes everyone deserves access to quality healthcare and is committed to helping remove barriers that prevent individuals from receiving essential dental treatment. As Treasurer, she proudly supports Dental Equity Project's mission of restoring smiles, improving confidence, and expanding access to life-changing dental restorations for underserved communities.

Kristine's exceptional financial leadership, unwavering integrity, and genuine compassion make her an invaluable member of the Dental Equity Project leadership team, helping advance a future where every person has the opportunity to smile with confidence.

Justo Laoreet Sitamet Cursus Elementum Integer

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Justo nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi. In vitae turpis massa sed.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.

Learn More

Molestie