Kathy Yerex

Kathy Yerex (she/her) is a Red River Métis Associate Professor at the School of Dental Hygiene, Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry, University of Manitoba. Holding a Master of Science in Oral Biology (2021), Bachelor of Science (2002), and Diploma in Dental Hygiene (2004) from the University of Manitoba, she emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, evidence-based education, and Indigenous oral health equity.

• Active in professional service since 2004
• Leadership roles in Manitoba and Canadian Dental Hygienists Associations
• Focus on clinical practice, health promotion, and education

Research Focus: Her work addresses oral microbiome relationships to disease, Indigenous children's oral health, quality assurance in dental hygiene, and pedagogical innovation. Funded by local/national grants, she explores technology integration in education.

Awards Highlights:

• 2020: Winnipeg Foundation Leadership Award
• 2020 & 2016: Dean’s Teaching Awards for tech innovation

Professional Context: Situated on Treaty 1 Territory ancestral lands, her practice acknowledges Indigenous sovereignty while advancing dental hygiene standards through mentorship and policy work.