Humans of NAU: Chadleo Webb
Dental hygienists are overwhelmingly women, but that doesn’t mean men can’t thrive in the profession. NAU’s new chair of dental hygiene, Chadleo Webb, is a prime example: Inspired by the tireless, loving care his father gave his mother after a stroke, Webb pursued a career on the frontlines of healthcare, employing the empathy he’d learned at home. In recognition of National Dental Hygiene Month, we asked Webb about how he came to NAU, what’s on his personal bucket list, what he’d say to other men who are thinking about working in dental hygiene and more.
What brought you to NAU?
I lived in Ohio my entire life and wanted a change of scenery and to advance my career. After a nationwide job search to pursue these goals, NAU offered the biggest environmental contrast and the highest quality of life. It’s safe to say my hobbies of hiking and skiing reached new heights.
What got you interested in dental hygiene?
I was drawn to dentistry among all healthcare professions. On the dental team, the dental hygienist role offers the most patient interaction and focuses on disease prevention. These two factors were enough to ignite my desire to become a dental hygienist.
What does a day in the life of a dental hygiene chair look like?
No two days are the same, and that’s one of the best aspects of the role. A typical day includes administrative tasks to keep things running, supporting faculty and students to perform at their best and grow and driving positive change initiatives forward.
Only 4-6% of U.S. dental hygienists are male. What would you say to other men who are considering a career in the field?
Don’t let your sex determine your career path. If you’re passionate about helping others through disease prevention and have an inexplicable love for teeth and gums, this profession will likely be a great fit.
Tell us about a significant childhood memory and how it has impacted your life today.
When I was 10, my mom suffered her second major stroke. Miraculously, she is still with us today. Watching my dad care for her with tireless, selfless devotion ever since has profoundly shaped who I am, right down to the daily choices I make.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I was torn between playing basketball in the NBA or football in the NFL. With so many options and teams to choose from, I decided not to pursue professional sports at age 11 because the choices felt overwhelming.
What have you been most proud of recently?
Preparing our nursery, home and life for our first child, due in late November. I am beyond excited and proud to become a father.
What is your favorite way to spend a day off?
I hike all morning with my family, come home and cook a meal I’ve never prepared before, then spend the evening resting with TV, reading and/or playing video games. I need one of these days this fall!
What are three things on your bucket list?
- Visit the Philippines. My mom and her family are from there, and sadly, I haven’t visited yet.
- Climb Mount St. Helens. I’ve never been to the Pacific Northwest, and summiting this historic volcano will be a great way to see more of the region.
- Walk the Kumano Kodo. This 5-day, 42-mile hike in southern Japan is a walk I must take at some point in my life.