HDA Staff

 

Lydia M. Ruiz-Trinidad
Operations Manager

 

Lydia M. Ruiz has accumulated more than 15 years of valuable experience collaborating with Dental Professionals. Before her current role at the Hispanic Dental Association (HDA), she served as the Continuing Education Coordinator for the College of Dental Surgeons in Puerto Rico (CCDPR). During her 11-year tenure at CCDPR, she played a pivotal role in coordinating annual programs for the Continued Education Committee, ensuring member compliance certifications for the Dental Board, managing member platform services, and overseeing the organization’s website. Additionally, she was a valued member of the planning committee for  the Dental Conference of the Caribbean, an esteemed annual event that drew the participation of over 2000 Oral Health professionals from the United States, the Caribbean (including Puerto Rico), and Latin America. In addition to her extensive experience working with dental professionals, Lydia also has a background in Accounting, having previously worked as an Administrative Assistant for a significant portion of her professional career. Her enthusiasm for being a part of the Hispanic Dental Association family is palpable, as she eagerly anticipates contributing to and enhancing the services provided to the association's members.


Nicole Maldonado
BOLD Coordinator & Admin Intern
 
 
Nicole Maldonado is a dedicated and passionate student with many years of experience in the dental field. Her career began as a dental assistant, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of patient care and dental practices. Nicole's commitment to the field extended beyond her professional duties as she actively volunteered for both the Hispanic Dental Association (HDA) and the Greater San Antonio Hispanic Dental Association (GSAHDA), contributing her time and expertise to support community health initiatives. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, with a minor in Public Health from the University of the Incarnate Word. Her academic background provided a strong foundation in the biological sciences and an understanding of public health principles, which she has applied throughout her career. Building on her undergraduate education, Nicole is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Medical Science. Her goal is to further her education by attending dental school, where she aspires to become a dentist, and continue her commitment to improving oral health and serving her community.
In her current roles as an Administrative Intern and BOLD Program Coordinator, Nicole is dedicated to promoting dentistry as a viable and rewarding career path for underrepresented individuals. The BOLD (Building Our Leaders in Dentistry) Program has played a significant role in her own pre-dental journey, offering guidance and support. As a coordinator, she is enthusiastic about encouraging participation in the BOLD program and helping others achieve their professional aspirations in dentistry.
Nicole’s journey reflects her dedication to both her personal growth and her commitment to  serving her community. Her blend of practical experience, academic achievement, and volunteer work underscores her passion for advancing the field of dentistry and supporting underrepresented groups in pursuing careers in oral health.
Contact email: support@hdassoc.org

Andrea Jauli, MBA
Executive Director
Contact email: executivedirector@hdassoc.org




Dr. Christina Meiners
Senior Advisor