Isela Garcia Leavitt co-founded the AZ Kidz Healthy Smiles Foundation and is a passionate advocate for children's oral health. She has over 30 years of experience as a Registered Dental Hygienist and has worked in various settings, including clinical practice, school-based programs, and mobile clinics. Born and raised in Mesa, Arizona, as the daughter of Mexican immigrants, Isela is fluent in English and Spanish, allowing her to connect with diverse communities.
She is pursuing her Master’s in Public Health at Northern Arizona University, which she will complete in May 2025. Her commitment to public health is evident through her service to the Maricopa County Tobacco Cessation Coalition and participation in the Swish and Spit program, where she educated children on oral hygiene. She has also worked extensively with underserved populations, providing preventive dental services in schools.
In addition to her nonprofit work, Isela volunteers at a dental clinic serving refugees and immigrants. Her vast clinical experience includes working with foster children, where she saw the need for improved oral health services. Isela also served as a clinical dental hygiene instructor at a community college, helping to educate future dental hygienists.
Isela enjoys spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren. In her free time, she loves music and woodworking projects with her husband.