Shelly Gorsuch | Program Coordinator

After years of working with various dentists, Shelly joined our teaching team in 2007. Shelly enjoys working with students from different backgrounds and teaching them the skills that she has learned. As a mother of three, Shelly enjoys camping, fishing and teaching her children about the beautiful outdoors.

From Shelly: “Our teaching team is very knowledgeable in all phases of dentistry and we each have over 10 years of experience in real world dental practice. Our teachers have diverse backgrounds and different personalities which combine for a unique and great team of experts.”

Joni Rust | RDA

Joni has worked as a RDA for over 25 years. She was on the Board of Directors at Modesto Junior College and involved with student internships when the college had a dental assisting program.

For the past 10 years she has been involved in dental sales for Henry Schein / Zahn Dental. She joined our teaching team in 2007 and enjoys working with students to develop careers in dentistry. During her spare time she enjoys her dog and working in her yard. She loves all outdoor activities.

From Joni: “We have a great team of instructors with a lot of experience. The 12 week Saturday course is perfect for students who have current jobs or want to make a career change. Our Saturday courses make it convenient and fit into most students’ schedules.”

Jessica Trollinger | RDA

Growing up I always enjoyed my experience at the dentist. As an adult my fascination with dentistry grew even stronger
once I realized the healthy work-life balance it offered. Being a dental assisting was a perfect match for me. After much research I decided to pursue my education through Dental Assisting Institute. To say the program was phenomenal would be an understatement… I absolutely loved the program and it was so informative! The instructors truly set you up for success making the transition into the work force seamless. Because of these reasons I decided to join the teaching team at DAI so I can give back the same amazing experience I had here.

Staci Davis | RDA

My name is Staci and I have been in the dental field for 18 years. I have been a RDA since 2006. I enjoy front and back office duties and my favorite part of dentistry is oral surgery and implants. I also have a newfound love of teaching students about different aspects of dental assisting with Dental Assisting Institute. In my spare time I enjoy being with my family, bike riding, swimming, going to the mountains and the ocean.

Theresa Nored | RDA

I have been an RDA since 2010, working and living in the Bay Area before moving to the Central Valley in 2017. I love meeting new people that are eager to learn. I'm a big believer in both physical and mental exercise. I try my best to help our students exercise their brains so they can grow both in confidence and in life.

On my days off I enjoy spending time with my husband, my two cats and riding my motorcycle with our church club. I want to help all the students at Dental Assisting Institute to realize that you are never too young or too old to learn new things.

Janet Darby | RDA

I have been an RDA since 1990. I have worked in Santa Clara for many years. I have been married for twenty-two years and blessed with two wonderful kids. In my spare time I enjoy traveling, shopping, cooking, and baking. I enjoy helping out with the Central West Ballet during Nutcracker season. I joined the Dental Assisting Institute team in 2020. I enjoy working alongside with an amazing staff and I really enjoy meeting new students and assisting them with their dental career.

Susan Kelly | RDA

Susan Kelley has been in the Orthodontic world for over 25 years. Having held certifications in Washington DC, Maryland, and California, she is experienced in all aspects of Orthodontic care!

Susan has a passion for orthodontic specialty cases having worked in Washington DC’s top orthodontic practice for Special Needs patients. These patients came from all over the Eastern Seaboard. She is always willing to answer questions whether it’s technical, practical, or relational in nature, to help patients understand their treatment and treatment goals.

Susan has 3 grown children and 4 grandsons who she adores spending time with. She’s been married 40 years, has 3 dogs and her favorite pastimes are gardening, sewing, and quilting.

Kris Tacket | RDA

Kris has been in the dental field for 40 years and is super excited to share her vast experience with our students.  She is married and has 2 lovely daughters. They have all lived in Oakdale for several years.  Her hobbies include snow skiing, bicycle riding and arts and crafts.

Daisy Diaz | RDA

Daisy was born and raised in Santa Cruz, California. She graduated both from high school and the ROP program in 2000. Daisy has worked in many different areas of dentistry and is currently working in pediatrics. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and experience to help in educating patients and guiding them to have great oral hygiene and better overall health. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her four legged fur baby Oddie and loves fitness and dancing.

Susan has a passion for orthodontic specialty cases having worked in Washington DC’s top orthodontic practice for Special Needs patients. These patients came from all over the Eastern Seaboard. She is always willing to answer questions whether it’s technical, practical, or relational in nature, to help patients understand their treatment and treatment goals.

Susan has 3 grown children and 4 grandsons who she adores spending time with. She’s been married 40 years, has 3 dogs and her favorite pastimes are gardening, sewing, and quilting.