Katie Rohr, a native of Maryland, spent her youth pursuing the dream of becoming a ballerina. But “after 14 plus years of training and many injuries,” she majored in psychology at Salisbury University, graduating in 2003. She worked briefly in a psychiatric rehabilitation program “for psychiatric and behavioral issues” in children before marrying her college sweetheart and relocating to Virginia.
At age 26, after working in a dental office, she entered the dental hygiene program at Northern Virginia Community College.
“The dental hygiene profession came upon me unexpectedly,” she said. “It is a far cry from pointe solos and tutus, but my journey has only begun. I’ve always enjoyed helping people. Being able to educate others about oral health and knowing they are passing the information along is very rewarding. I am truly blessed and honored to call dental hygiene my home.”
She has blended as a dental hygienist into the local neighborhoods, serving in community projects such as Give Kids a Smile and Mission of Mercy. In addition, she is serving as president of the Northern Virginia Dental Hygiene Association and is a delegate for the state association.
She is upbeat about her career choice and enjoys helping the dental practice turn “green.”
“More and more, consumers are becoming environmentally and health conscious,” she said. “It is our responsibility as health care providers to offer green alternatives. Whether it is products, procedures, or supplies, green initiatives are becoming a reality. While each of us impacts the world in a small way, together we are leaving a huge footprint. Over time, small changes add up to monumental advances.”
Katie Rohr, RDH, BA
Falls Church, Virginia
Her family: Husband, Tom
Dental hygiene education: Northern Virginia Community College, graduating in 2008
Private practice: William Dougherty, DDS, in Falls Church, Virginia
Private time: Enjoys running, yoga, and visiting local vineyards
