Spotlight Series: Diane Wilson

A 2024 study emphasized the need for Texas to significantly improve its dental health. This is especially important due to the state’s high percentage of uninsured residents, as highlighted by U.S. Census data.

At Palo Alto College, Diane Wilson RDH, MEd leads the charge to address this pressing issue. With 42 years of experience in oral health and dental hygiene, Wilson has expertly blended clinical expertise with educational leadership. Her work has shaped the next generation of dental hygienists and made a tangible difference in the oral health of Bexar County residents.

Wilson began her higher education career as a founding faculty member of the dental hygiene program at Lone Star College in 2004, where she helped establish a highly regarded program. In 2021, despite retirement plans, she brought her expertise to Palo Alto College (PAC) as Executive Director of Dental Hygiene, thanks to some encouraging words from her husband and a longtime friend who happens to be a fellow PAC employee. 

Under her leadership, the department she built from the ground up has flourished and is recognized for its rigorous standards and exceptional quality. Students in the PAC Dental Hygiene program must excel in courses covering Oral Pathology, Public Health, Pharmacology, and Dentistry Law, among others. The program features cutting-edge facilities, including advanced 3D imaging and radiology, panoral 2D radiography, digital impression wands, and paperless charting technology, providing students with hands-on experience using the latest technologies and quality patient care.

“You can’t have great overall health without proper oral healthcare, and understanding that correlation is critical, " shares Wilson. “For our community, we want to provide quality access to patient-centered care and build clinicians who value that critical thinking behind patient care.”

Wilson and her team of experienced educators are doing just that. Earlier this year, the inaugural class of dental hygienists served over 260 community members at little to no cost, demonstrating the program's significant impact on local health and well-being.

In the future, Wilson plans to expand clinic services beyond the PAC campus and take a more active role in venturing out to treat underserved communities. “The public health education, for that type of rotational experience, is invaluable, plus the communities benefit,” Wilson explains.

Wilson was acknowledged for her innovative efforts at the San Antonio Business Journal Women’s Leadership Awards earlier this August. The Women’s Leadership Awards recognize 25 local women for their leadership and efforts in improving their organizations, industries, and communities.

Diane Wilson’s dedication and innovative approach have positioned the Palo Alto College Dental Hygiene Program as a leader in improving oral health and advancing education. Her commitment to community service and excellence in training future dental hygienists makes a significant difference in Bexar County and beyond.

Visit ftigo.com/pac/dental-hygiene to learn more about the program, explore its cutting-edge facilities, and discover how to get involved or benefit from its services.