Dr. Bobbi Augustyn
Dr. Bobbi likes to keep life simple. She cares for her family, which includes three children, works at Camp Smile, and water skis on Lake Minnetonka whenever possible.
“I’ve been slaloming since I was 5 years old; it’s one of my favorite things to do,” Dr. Bobbi says. “You have to keep yourself in good shape, and I want to do it forever.”
Dr. Bobbi isn’t kidding.
“I want to be able to water ski when I’m an old grandma!” she says. “Wouldn’t that be cool?”
Dr. Bobbi enjoys the physical challenge of the sport, which requires full body strength and plenty of balance. But she also appreciates the beauty of the sport, especially at dusk.
“The water looks like glass,” she says, “and it feels like you’re just walking on it. It’s pretty awesome.”
She also uses the word awesome to describe her family, both at home and at work.
Known for her colorful frames and frequent singing and dancing outbursts, Dr. Bobbi is a bundle of positive energy for her patients and teammates at Camp Smile.
“I love my job, if you can call it that, because I have the BEST patients and team that keep me smiling, singing, and laughing all day,” she says.
More about Dr. Bobbi
What are some of your hobbies? Hiking, singing, strength training, boating with the family. I love to read, if I can get away on vacation long enough to do that. I also love to play ball; I throw a mean spiral!
What superpower do you wish you had? A “magical smile” that when shared, would protect all kiddos in the office and keep them care-free, childlike, safe, and happy their entire life.
What is one of your actual superpowers? I make great kids — my husband tells me all the time!
What is your favorite snack? It’s a chocolate-dipped sugar cone with coffee ice cream from Licks Unlimited in Excelsior.
Favorite fluoride flavor? Orange creamsicle
Characteristic you admire in people? Honesty, integrity and kindness.
DR. BOBBI’S PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Dr. Bobbi L. Augustyn graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry in 2005, and completed her pediatric residency in 2007. She practiced in Hastings, Nebraska for three years prior to moving to Minnesota where she has been part of Camp Smile since 2010.
Dr. Augustyn is the owner of Camp Smile Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics.
DR. BOBBI’S PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT
Dr. Bobbi is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, and the Minnesota Association of Pediatric Dentistry. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
CURRICULUM VITAE
- Hastings College, Biology 2001, B.A.
- University of Nebraska College of Dentistry 2005, D.D.S.
- UNMC College of Dentistry 2007 Pediatric Certificate
- Private Practice, Plymouth, Minnesota, 2010-present
- Private Practice, Hastings, Nebraska, 2007-2010
- Past President of the Nebraska Association of Pediatric Dentistry
- Past President of the Minnesota Association of Pediatric Dentistry
- Past volunteer faculty at UNMC College of Dentistry
- Hospital affiliations and privileges at Children’s Hospital’s and Clinics
- Fellow and Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD) Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Colin Maguire
Dr. Colin has learned so much from golf, a sport he’s played since he was four years old. He enjoys being outside, the uniqueness of each course and the different challenges and opportunities each hole presents.
“I love that you have to read a hole and pick an appropriate play,” Dr. Colin says. “That plays into my job: Reading the situation and being able to adapt based on a patient’s needs and concerns.”
As a dentist, Dr. Colin meets lots of new, young patients who are nervous.
“It’s great to provide an experience that is hopefully positive and life-changing to a patient population that you can really impact,” Dr. Colin says. “I want to help each kid through whatever they need and have them high five me at the end so they don’t have to be scared to go to the dentist.”
More about Dr. Colin
Do you have any children? I have two awesome boys named Ben and Will. They always keep life interesting for us!
What are some of your hobbies? I enjoy golfing, being out on the lake, wakeboarding, wake surfing, and I wished I fished more. In the winter, I downhill ski.
What superpower do you wish you had? Teleporting because you could just be wherever you wanted! I’d put myself on the first tee at the Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland.
What is one of your actual superpowers? Being able to make a cookie disappear!
Favorite fluoride flavor? Walterberry!
Characteristic you admire in people? Humor. The ability to smile and laugh, and keep the mood light is important to me. That’s what gets you through the good times and bad times.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND:
Dr. Colin Maguire graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2012. After graduation, he completed a 1-year general practice residency in Oklahoma City, OK at the OU Children’s Hospital. He then completed his pediatric residency at the University of Minnesota, where he served as Chief Resident.
PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT:
Dr. Colin Maguire is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, and the Minnesota Association of Pediatric Dentistry. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
CURRICULUM VITAE
- Montana State, Cell Biology & Neuroscience, 2008, B.S.
- University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, 2012, DDS
- OU Children’s Hospital General Practice Residency, 2013, Certificate
- University of Minnesota School of Dentistry Pediatric Residency, 2015
- Hospital affiliations and privileges at Children’s Hospital’s and Clinics
- Past President of The Minnesota Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- Fellow and Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD) Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Amelia Leuer
Dr. Amelia comes from a farming family, and horses were a fixture throughout her childhood. She first appeared in a horse show when she was three years old and started riding Patrick, her own shetland pony, when she was seven.
“We always had ponies around,” Dr. Amelia says. “My first memory of having any responsibility was cleaning his stall and feeding him.”
After school, she cleaned and groomed horses prior to spending at least forty-five minutes riding. On weekends, she participates in equestrian and horse showings, winning her share of local and regional titles.
“It takes a lot of compassion and empathy to care for a horse,” Dr. Amelia says. “Your horse cannot verbalize experiences of discomfort or distress to you. You have to really be in tune to that.”
Dr. Amelia says those characteristics serve her well as a pediatric dentist.
“When kids are really young,” she says, “they don’t possess the communication skills adults do.”
Dr. Amelia is grateful for the special relationships she developed with her horses, including Snooky 1 and Snooky 2. These horses appeared similar; however, they were different in many ways.
“Most people couldn’t tell them apart,” Dr. Amelia says. “I could. They are both so sweet and loving.”
Although she won most of her awards with Snooky 2, Dr. Amelia still learned a lot riding Snooky 1 on trail rides at Cross Hassan Park Reserve. Snooky 2 enjoyed being pampered, preferred being inside, and did not like to get dirty.
“[Snooky 2]’s kind of a diva!” Dr. Amelia says.
More about Dr. Amelia
If you had a free day to do anything, how would you spend it? I love spending time with my family. I would probably want to spend the day with them and take our motor home camping where we could hike, bike, grill, play games, boat on a lake, and sit around a bonfire.
What superpower do you wish you had? I always thought it would be so fun to talk to animals!
What is one of your actual superpowers? I love to sing, and I know the words to many of the Disney princess songs.
What is your favorite snack? Oreo cookies
Why do you love your job? Being a pediatric dentist is the best job in the world! It is a remarkable privilege to care for the dental health of children and patients with special health care needs. Every day incorporates fun, challenge, and a unique set of skills to guide children through the dental experience. I feel so blessed to be entrusted with this role and form relationships with children and their families to help promote healthy smiles that will last a lifetime.
What is your favorite cartoon or animated movie? Beauty and the Beast
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND:
Dr. Amelia Leuer graduated from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, with a B.S. in Biology. She then went on to earn her D.D.S. from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. In dental school, Dr. Leuer was awarded the Student Leadership and Service Award in recognition of her demonstrated leadership. It was during her residency at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin that Dr. Leuer received extensive training in treating patients with special heath care needs and experience in hospital dentistry, sedation, orthodontics, and dental trauma.
PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT:
Dr. Leuer is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Minnesota Dental Association, and the American Dental Association.
CURRICULUM VITAE
- University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Biology, 2013, B.S.
- University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, 2017, D.D.S.
- Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Residency, 2019
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD) Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Alison Seamans
Dr. Alison’s fondest childhood memories involve spending time with her family camping at state parks throughout Minnesota. She would explore, hike, swim, and enjoy plenty of S’mores fireside.
Dr. Alison shares her passion for the outdoors with her husband, Mike, so it makes sense that one of their first investments together was a truck camper. They use it most weekends during the summer and try to plan one long trip per year.
The two have visited numerous National Parks together and have aspirations to visit all the National Parks in the future. They were engaged in Glacier National Park, and even got married in Grand Teton National Park!
When asked why she became a pediatric dentist, Dr. Alison credits her mother who was a special education teacher at Minnetonka High School for about 30 years.
“I have been around children with special health care needs my entire life,” says Dr. Alison. “I realized early on that I had a desire to work with this special population. My goal is to treat each child individually to meet their unique needs. I have the privilege to help shape their dental experience into a great one!” Dr. Alison says. “I feel so lucky to be able to do the work I do and have fun doing it!”
More about Dr. Alison
What superpower do you wish you had? Teleportation. There’s so much to see in this world and not enough time!
If you had a free day to do anything, how would you spend it? With my family in our camper, exploring a new and exciting location or returning to an old favorite! One of our favorite spots is Gold Bluffs Beach in California.
What is your favorite snack? Charcuterie Boards
Favorite fluoride flavor? Strawberry
What is your favorite cartoon or animated movie? Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
DR. ALISON’S PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Dr. Alison Seamans graduated with her B.S. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She then went on to earn her D.D.S. from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. While in dental school, Dr. Seamans received the Jerome B. Miller Award of Excellence in Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology Certificate of Recognition, to name a few. During her residency, and experience within private practice Dr. Seamans gained experience in treating patients with various medical complexities. She acquired additional skills to perform comprehensive dental care in both the traditional clinical setting as well as the hospital operating room setting.
DR. ALISON’S PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT
Dr. Seamans is a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
CURRICULUM VITAE
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2011, B.S.
- University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, 2016, D.D.S.
- University of Minnesota, Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program, 2018
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD) Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Brittany Granoski
Many people are proud of where they’re from.
But Dr. Brittany’s passion for Canada runs deep — and wide.
“I loved growing up in Canada, and I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to live in so many different parts of the beautiful country,” Dr. Brittany says. “I’ve had the opportunity to experience many of the different landscapes and cultures Canada has to offer, from the Rocky Mountains to the prairies, and both coasts. Every part of Canada is unique.”
Dr. Brittany grew up in Alberta, and she spent parts of several summers in British Columbia. She went to dental school in Saskatchewan, and then a residency in Nova Scotia.
So did she keep moving to different parts of the Canada on purpose?
“That’s a good question,” she says. “But it just ended up being by chance, and then I really loved getting to move and see different parts of Canada and having these different experiences.”
In her family, Dr. Brittany is the exception. Most of her family lives in St. Albert, a city northwest of Edmonton. Growing up, she grew to love skiing, snowboarding, skating, hiking and riding bikes.
Each move, though, inspired her to keep exploring and traveling.
“I had this realization, ‘Oh, I can go anywhere and do anything I want to!’ “
Like do an internship one summer in Sri Lanka, go travelling overseas, and move internationally to the USA.
But in her beloved Canada, Dr. Brittany appreciates something special.
“What Canadians from all parts have in common,” she says, “is that they are kind, generous, welcoming and supportive.”
That has served her well throughout her career, helping her connect with patients and their families.
More about Dr. Brittany
What superpower do you wish you had? I wish I could slow down time. I am so lucky to live the life I do and sometimes wish I could slow it down to soak it all in more. It would also help to have more time when I procrastinate. There’s so much to see in this world, and not enough time!
What is one of your actual superpowers? I make the best paper airplanes. In high school, my part-time job was at a gym, working in a play care center, and I found myself making a lot of paper airplanes. I did it all the time.
If you had a free day to do anything, how would you spend it? I would be out of the house, outdoors, spending time with friends and family.
What is your favorite snack? Trader Joe’s Peanut Butter Pretzels!
What is your favorite cartoon or animated movie? Monsters, Inc.
DR. BRITTANY’S PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Dr. Brittany Granoski graduated from the University of Saskatchewan in 2018 with her Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.). After graduation, she completed a 1-year Pediatric General Practice Residency at IWK Health Centre, Dalhousie University. She then completed her pediatric residency at the University of Minnesota, where she served as Chief Resident.
DR. BRITTANY’S PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT
Dr. Brittany Granoski is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Minnesota Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Nova Scotia Dental Association, and the Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
CURRICULUM VITAE
- University of Alberta, Chemistry Major, Business Minor, 2014, B.S.
- University of Saskatchewan, 2018, DMD
- Dalhousie University, IWK Health Centre, 2019, Pediatric General Practice Residency
- University of Minnesota, 2021, Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Mary Tran-Wexler
Dr. Mary has always loved to challenge her mind. In elementary school, she was drawn to wooden puzzles, especially navigating tricky parts and the exhilarating feeling after completing the puzzle.
“Just the trial and error, and figuring out where things go,” she says, “and the accomplished feeling at the end.”
Dr. Mary admits to having a tenacious personality, so she’s bothered when she can’t complete something. In high school, a friend helped her recognize different combinations to solve a Rubik’s Cube, and she would try different brain teasers.
Even as life became very busy, her interest in puzzles and brain teasers persisted. Through college, dental school, and multiple residencies she was still doing puzzles, and after passing her board examination, Dr. Mary celebrated with a puzzle.
“I went to the dining table to do that instead of something — I don’t know — productive because it had been so busy,” Dr. Mary says. “So it was nice to sit down and work on a puzzle.”
Her mother-in-law had some puzzles for Dr. Mary, but a 1,000 piece Kodak one (depicting a colorful European town) was among the most challenging.
The colors and lines were very challenging, but Dr. Mary explained.
“If I open one and start one,” she says, “I can’t not finish it!”
Dr. Mary says that persistence is a core part of why she likes dentistry.
“I very much appreciate the end result,” she says, “like getting the kid through the appointment and having nice, healthy teeth, and working with them through the different appointments.”
More about Dr. Mary
What is one of your actual superpowers? My voice. My daughter isn’t playing any sports yet, but she will be able to hear me!
If you had a free day to do anything, how would you spend it? Picnic in a park with family and lots of friends, and really good food. Maybe some lawn games, some board games, some music. But mostly hanging out.
What is your favorite snack? Crunchy, salty snacks, so I love chips.
Why do you love your job? Kids are so fun!
What is your favorite cartoon or animated movie? Trolls World Tour. It’s so good! You have to check it out.
DR. MARY’S PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Dr. Mary Tran-Wexler graduated from the University of California San Francisco with her Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 2013, and completed her pediatric residency at the University of Minnesota in 2022. She practiced in Berkeley California from 2015 through 2022 prior to moving to Minnesota and becoming part of Camp Smile Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics.
DR. MARY’S PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT
Dr. Mary is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
CURRICULUM VITAE
- University of California Los Angeles, Psychobiology, B.S.
- University of California San Francisco, Doctorate of Dental Surgery, 2013
- Advanced Education General Dentistry Residency at Lutheran Medical Center, 2014
- General Dentistry Practice, Berkeley California, 2014-2020
- University of Minnesota, Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program, 2022
- Past teaching experience at Lutheran Medical Center Clinical Faculty
- Past teaching experience at UCSF Adjunct Clinical Faculty
Dr. Britta Kronzer
Dr. Britta started in gymnastics at the age of 3, and she developed and competed at high levels throughout her childhood.
“I loved the challenge of trying to train yourself to do something that you wouldn’t normally do on a day-to-day basis,” Dr. Britta says. “It’s such a rewarding feeling when you overcome obstacles to complete these skills and tasks. I love the perseverance aspect of it.”
In gymnastics, levels refer to the status of the gymnast according to their skillset. In the U.S., gymnastics categories are divided into levels from 1 to 10, with the latter number the most competitive.
Dr. Britta was a Level 8. One of her favorite events was the beam, a small, thin beam which is usually raised off the floor.
Though known as an individual sport, Dr. Britta loved the team aspect of gymnastics. Her club also had an annual sleepover in the gym, where the gymnasts built forts, watched movies and ate pizza. One of her fondest memories was going with her team to compete at the home stadium of the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals.
“I loved being a part of a team environment, having teammates who believe in you,” she says. “I’m still friends with them to this day.”
After she stopped competing, Dr. Britta went on to coach for several years, focusing on the youngest gymnasts. She enjoyed working with families, and challenging the gymnasts while also ensuring their safety.
Dr. Britta says gymnastics has taught her so much about life.
“It helps me realize that there are a lot of ups and downs in life,” she says, “just like a balance beam.”
More about Dr. Britta
What superpower do you wish you had? I wish that I could be in two places at once. There’s so much I want to do in the world, and sometimes it’s hard to pick.
What is one of your actual superpowers (something that makes you special and unique)? I can walk upside down on my hands. I could probably go a few feet.
If you had a free day to do anything, how would you spend it? I would spend the day with my husband, son and dog. We would go walk at a pretty park, and picnic and spend time outside.
What is your favorite snack? I love a good brownie. Betty Crocker.
Why do you love your job? I love getting to know people, and I love getting to help kids accomplish these things that they were scared beforehand. Building that trust. Accomplish their goal of protecting their teeth.
Favorite fluoride flavor? Creamsicle.
What is your favorite cartoon or animated movie? I love Frozen. I love the music. I love singing it with people, too. Not well, but.
DR. BRITTA’S PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Dr. Britta A. Kronzer graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2020. She practiced as a general dentist at a community clinic in Rochester, MN for a year prior to pursuing pediatric residency. She then went on to receive her Certificate of Pediatric Dentistry from the University of Minnesota in 2023, where she served as Chief Resident. Dr. Britta then joined the Camp Smile Team in the summer of 2023.
DR. BRITTA’S PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT
Dr. Britta is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Minnesota Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Britta is also a part time adjunct faculty at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in the pre-doc pediatric clinic.
CURRICULUM VITAE
- St. Olaf College, Chemistry 2016, B.A.
- University of Minnesota, 2020, D.D.S.
- University of Minnesota, 2023, Pediatric Certificate
- General Dentist, Rochester, MN 2020-2021
Dr. Natalie Turner
During winters in Wisconsin, Natalie learned to sew from her mother and grandmother when she was “old enough not to poke myself with a needle.”
She figures that was around fifth or sixth grade, but it was among the many things her family wanted her and her sister to experience and try.
In time, Natalie discovered it was great for her, since she can’t sit still.
“I always like to be doing something so you can sew and have a conversation, or sew and watch TV,” she says. “You can have your hands busy, then you get something really cool at the end.”
Her grandmother was prolific, making quilts and jackets for the children in the family. In school, Natalie made some basic squares and a pillowcase. But her first major project wasn’t until she was about to leave for college. Over the course of three months, she made herself a blanket.
She still has it, Natalie says, though its dimensions reflect the non-traditional size of a bed in a college dorm room.
Her skill, though, was useful in college; she was counted upon to sew costumes in her sorority. Then, after college, she started to find comfort in sewing.
It helped that she had an important tool; her grandmother gifted her a sewing machine, the one she used for many years.
“It still works,” Natalie says. “She keeps everything in incredible condition. Why get a newer one when this one still works?”
Asked if there’s sentimental value, Natalie adds, “Yes, because she’s the one that showed me how to use it, and she still has all the original attachments. I haven’t had to buy anything.”
In the winter of 2023, Natalie took some classes on tailoring clothes, learning different angles and recognizing patterns.
“You get to cut all these shapes, and then you get to lay them out in a bunch of different ways,” she says. “Then you can rearrange things. It’s artistic, it’s fun, it’s very unique.”
Natalie is working on a coat for herself, but she also makes gifts — like baby blankets — for others.
After going to college in Nebraska, doing residency in Ohio, and working in Michigan, Natalie will be less than two hours from her family now. Wherever she ends up living, though, Natalie’s sewing machine and setup will be a key part of her place.
“I do art projects all day at work,” she says, referring to her work at Camp Smile, “so this is like the same sort of thing.”
More about Natalie
What superpower do you wish you had?
The ability to fly. How cool would that be? I want to go to Greece!
What is one of your actual superpowers (something that makes you special and unique)?
I am a great baker! My family says I make the best cinnamon rolls.
If you had a free day to do anything, how would you spend it?
I love being outdoors and taking my Springer Spaniel on hikes. She’s a bird dog and loves to chase after animals and sticks.
Why do you love your job?
Every day is different and always so much fun! I love being able to build relationships with patients and their families.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND:
Dr. Natalie Turner is a highly skilled pediatric dentist dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive dental care to children. She obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Creighton University School of Dentistry in 2021. Following her dental education, Dr. Turner pursued specialized training in pediatric dentistry at the University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, where she completed a fully accredited Pediatric Dental Residency Program and earned a Master of Oral Biology.
PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT:
Dr. Turner is actively involved in professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Michigan Academy of Dentistry, and Michigan Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She is committed to staying updated with the latest advancements in pediatric dentistry and holds memberships in various dental associations.
CURRICULUM VITAE:
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Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and Pre-Health Professions and German Studies from Creighton University, Omaha, NE, 2017
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Doctor of Dental Surgery from Creighton University School of Dentistry, Omaha, NE, 2021
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Pediatric Dental Residency Program and Master of Oral Biology from University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH, 2023
Dr. Alyssa Domico
As a little girl, Alyssa tried many sports, including volleyball, basketball, softball, and hockey. But softball was the one that stuck.
As a five-year-old, Alyssa played with eight-year-olds.
She liked that it was a team sport and that one player wasn’t going to carry a team.
“I always say softball is a game of failure. Someone can go up and they can fail seven out of ten times, and they’re considered a great hitter,” Alyssa says. “So it’s truly taught me how to deal with adversity and persevere through the ‘slumps,’ and just have a good, positive attitude at all times.”
When asked if she can recall a slump she experienced and learned from, Alyssa says, “I don’t believe in slumps.”
“My dad, who coached me my whole life, really built me to be a mentally tough player and work on the mental part of the game,” she says. “Of course, there were times I wasn’t hitting well, but one of his big things he taught me was never to take your last at-bat into your next one. And I think that applies to life: One bad hit or a strikeout doesn’t mean your next opportunity will end in the same result. Even if you hit a home run, you need to remain humble, continue to work hard, and don’t always expect to smack it out of the park.”
Softball was a family affair, Alyssa says, with her father coaching, her mother supporting from the stands, and all of her siblings also playing softball/baseball.
“It was really special. Lots of good memories,” she says. “In hindsight, the most special moments aren’t necessarily the ones on the ball field, but the drives to the games, listening to 80s music, and getting snacks on the way.
“Those are the things that I’ll keep in my heart forever.”
One special road trip does come to mind, though. There was a tournament in Columbus, Indiana.
“Right after, my mom randomly wanted to see the Statue of Liberty, so we drove all the way to New York,” Alyssa recalls.
Their minivan had a roof rack, and they couldn’t use some of New York’s tunnels.
“We did not get to see the Statue of Liberty, except from afar, because it was closed, all the ferries were closed,” she says. “But we ate a big McDonald’s meal and drove the 14 hours back home.”
A first baseman, Alyssa played softball at Dominican University in Illinois. She currently plays on a men’s softball team in Eden Prairie, and she coaches young players.
“I’d love to get involved in youth softball in the Twin Cities,” Alyssa says.
More about Alyssa
What is one of your actual superpowers (something that makes you special and unique)?
I like to consider myself quick-witted, and I love using my wit to make others laugh and smile. Making others smile is the most rewarding feeling! I also have a strong memory, and my friends tell me they are impressed by my ability to remember song lyrics. I love singing karaoke, but I bring entertainment value only (no singing talent found).
What is your favorite snack?
I am a hot dog enthusiast. Being a Chicago native, I love a Chicago-style hot dog. For other types of snacks/candies, I love any and all chocolate.
Favorite cartoon or animated movie?
I pretty much loved any and all cartoons from the ’90s and early 2000s. When I was a kid, I frequently watched shows like Powerpuff Girls, Rugrats, Courage the Cowardly Dog, SpongeBob, and CatDog. Some of my favorite animated movies are The Little Mermaid, Mulan, and Beauty and the Beast.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND:
Dr. Alyssa Domico is a dedicated orthodontist with a passion for providing exceptional patient-centered care. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree with high distinction from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry in May 2021. Following her dental education, Dr. Domico pursued specialized training in orthodontics at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, where she completed a fully accredited Orthodontic Certificate and Master of Science program in June 2023.
PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT:
Dr. Domico is actively involved in several professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), Midwestern Society of Orthodontists, and the American Dental Association. She is committed to staying updated with the latest advancements in orthodontics and holds active memberships in various dental associations.
CURRICULUM VITAE:
- Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience with minors in Chemistry and Business Administration from Dominican University, River Forest, IL, 2017
- Doctor of Dental Medicine with high distinction from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, Lexington, KY, 2021
- Orthodontic Certificate and Master of Science from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, Minneapolis, MN, 2023
- American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Board Certified Orthodontist
Dr. Hugh Murdoch
When he was in the fifth grade, Dr. Hugh’s father insisted his son needed something to do during the winter.
He played soccer in the fall and decided to try basketball, though he quickly realized that many others in his community outside of Milwaukee had far more experience than he did.
“I instantly hated it,” Dr. Hugh says. “My teammates had already been playing for a few years, and I struggled to learn the basics.”
He traveled nearly every time he touched the ball and kept telling his father that he wanted to quit the sport. But his father told him to honor his commitment to the team and finish the season.
“Then, about three-quarters of the way through, I got bitten by the bug,” Dr. Hugh recalls. “Part of it was getting better, and part of it was just feeling like I was contributing to the team. Something clicked, and I was hooked.”
After the season ended, Dr. Hugh always had a basketball in his hands. He took 300 shots every day from different angles and distances.
By the following winter, he was an entirely different player. What captivated him about basketball was its simplicity.
“It’s a pure game,” he says. “There’s just a ball. There’s no equipment, no helmets. You can see everybody’s face, and I think your personality really comes through in the game.”
He’s grateful that basketball took him all over the U.S. and introduced him to so many amazing people.
“Many of the lessons I learned on the court have helped with life experiences,” Dr. Hugh says. “I have learned to both win and lose with dignity. Sometimes the ball just takes a bad bounce, and things do not go as they should. While winning is great, losing often led to more time with teammates as we honed our skills and figured out how to improve.”
One of the most enduring lessons is that great individual performances are always secondary to the team’s overall success.
Dr. Hugh played for his high school team and had an opportunity to play basketball in college. He elected, however, to focus on academics at Marquette University. He eventually followed in his father’s footsteps and became a dentist.
Dr. Hugh’s interest in basketball remains although his playing days are winding down. “I still play on occasion, but I have spent the majority of my court time over the past few years sharing my knowledge and experience as a coach,” Dr. Hugh says. “It’s a great activity for bonding with my son.”
More about Dr. Hugh
What superpower do you wish you had?
There are so many good superpowers, but I would go with the ability to fly. I cannot imagine feeling more free! Seeing everything from a different perspective is an added bonus. Not to mention, you could instantly be anywhere in the world without baggage fees.
What is one of your actual superpowers (something that makes you special and unique)?
Calmness. Experience has taught me that worrying only makes difficult situations worse. I try to give people a measure of comfort and help them feel better. My wife tells me that I am her port in the storm.
Why do you love your job?
Orthodontics had a transformational effect on me as a teen, and it is a blessing to be able to share the confidence that comes from a beautiful smile. I have an eye for detail, and bringing treatment to a successful conclusion appeals to this particular trait. It’s also enjoyable to take what initially seems like a daunting process and make it fun. Orthodontics is unique in that it provides an opportunity for everyone involved to get to know each other over a period of time. I am fortunate to have practiced long enough that my former patients occasionally stop by to let me know how they are doing as adults.
Favorite fluoride flavor?
Until balsamic vinaigrette is offered, I will go with either Orange Cream or Lemon Lime.
Favorite cartoon or animated movie?
As a superhero lover, the “Spider-Verse” series is, for lack of a better word, amazing. From the storyline to the animation and voice acting, there is nothing else quite like it. The first movie even won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film.
HUGH’S PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Dr. Hugh Murdoch graduated from the Marquette University School of Dentistry in 1996, and completed his Master of Science and Certificate of Specialty in Orthodontics in 1998. He has been an esteemed part of the orthodontics field since his graduation, contributing significantly to both clinical practice and community service.
HUGH’S PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT
Dr. Hugh is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and the Minnesota Association of Orthodontists (MAO). He is a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) and a member of the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics (CDABO).
CURRICULUM VITAE
- Bachelor of Science in Biology, Marquette University, 1993
- Doctor of Dental Surgery, Marquette University School of Dentistry, 1996
- Master of Science and Certificate of Specialty in Orthodontics, Marquette University School of Dentistry, 1998
- American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)
- Minnesota Association of Orthodontists (MAO)
- Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics (ABO)
- College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics (CDABO)