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Cynthia L. Senior

Cynthia L. Senior

Associate Professor-Education

Department:
SHR-Doc of Health Admin Prog

Email:
csenior@umc.edu

Work Phone:
(601) 984-6314

Biography

Dr. Cynthia Senior has over fifteen years of clinical experience in the field of dental hygiene. Currently, she serves as an Associate Professor in the Doctor of Health Administration program within the School of Health Related Professions. Before joining SHRP, she held roles as the Director of Assessment, Education QI Director, and Associate Professor of dental hygiene at the School of Dentistry. Dr. Senior obtained her Baccalaureate degree in Dental Hygiene from the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in 2005, a Master of Education from William Carey University in 2013, and a Doctorate in Health Administration in 2020.

Originally from the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Dr. Senior began her career as a registered dental hygienist in Gulfport's private practice sector. In 2013, she transitioned to a full-time faculty role within the Department of Dental Hygiene at UMMC School of Dentistry. Actively engaged in professional organizations, Dr. Senior serves as Treasurer of the Mississippi Dental Hygienists’ Association and is a clinical board examiner for national dental hygiene licensure examinations.

As a faculty member, Dr. Senior actively provided instruction across didactic, laboratory, and clinical settings. During her tenure as clinic director, Dr. Senior collaborated with peers to introduce a groundbreaking initiative: digitizing clinical assessment. This pioneering approach brought about a significant transformation in the clinical learning environment by offering students instant feedback. With the integration of digital tools, students were empowered to receive prompt evaluations and constructive feedback, enriching their educational journey and fostering ongoing development. Additionally, her scholarly endeavors encompass exploring ergonomics in dental education, assessment practices in higher education, and professionalism within the health sciences field.

In addition to her professional obligations, Dr. Senior harbors a profound dedication to community service, both locally and internationally. Together with her family, she has spearheaded dental mission trips to Togo, Africa, where they rendered indispensable dental care to over 300 patients in their most recent undertaking. Furthermore, Dr. Senior enjoys engaging in Pilates practice and instruction, having recently acquired certification to teach the discipline.

Education

University of Mississippi Medical Center, DHA, Doctorate in Health Administration2020
William Carey University, M.Ed, Education2013
University of Mississippi Medical Center, BS, Dental Hygiene2005

Specialty Certification Licensure

Certification, Local Anesthesia Permit, Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners10/2023 - Present
Licensure, Dental Hygiene License, Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners06/2005 - Present

Current Positions

Associate Professor, School of Dentistry, Department of Dental Hygiene07/2024 - Present
Instructor, School of Health Related Professions, Department of Dental Hygiene12/2013 - Present
The University of Mississippi Medical Center
Jackson, Mississippi 39216

Academic Appointments or Other Previous Appointments

Director, University of Mississippi Medical Center08/2022 - 06/2024
Assistant Professor, University of Mississippi Medical Center, School of Dentistry, Department of Dental Hygiene07/2018 - 06/2024
Clinic Director, University of Mississippi Medical Center, School of Dentistry05/2017 - 08/2022
Clinic Coordinator, University of Mississippi Medical Center, School of Health Related Professions05/2016 - 05/2017