Meet the CHHS Teacher of the Year: Haylee McElroy
Haylee McElroy, a faculty member in the Department of Dental Hygiene, has been named the College of Health and Human Services Teacher of the Year. This award recognizes educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication to teaching and a strong commitment to student success.
McElroy’s path into healthcare began early. She recalls being drawn to dental hygiene from a young age after seeing firsthand how oral health can impact a person’s quality of life, both functionally and aesthetically. That early exposure shaped her desire to make a positive impact on others, initially through patient care, and later through education.
“Over time, my focus shifted from helping patients one-on-one to wanting to have a broader impact,” McElroy said. “I realized I wanted to share what I had learned to help prepare future dental hygienists for practice.” Today, she contributes to the oral health of the community not only through her field, but by guiding students throughout their educational journeys.
Students consistently highlight McElroy’s passion for teaching and the supportive environment she creates in the classroom. One student shared, “You can tell she is genuinely passionate about what she teaches and truly cares about her students.” Another described her as “one of the most amazing professors I have ever had.”
This appreciation is reflected in McElroy’s course evaluations, where she has maintained exceptional ratings over the past two years across multiple courses. Students frequently praise the learning environment she fosters, noting that they feel comfortable asking questions and engaging with the material without fear of judgment.
For McElroy, that witnessing growth in both students and patients have been one of the most rewarding aspects of her career. “I’ve had many meaningful experiences working with anxious patients and helping them reach a point where they feel more comfortable coming to the dental office. Being able to build that trust and see the impact it has on their overall oral health is especially fulfilling.” She notes that, much like working with patients, teaching allows her to witness meaningful progress over time.
“In my role as an educator, I see that same kind of growth in students as they build confidence and begin to apply what they’ve learned in a clinical setting,” she said. “Watching that progression has been just as rewarding.”
Her impact extends beyond technical instruction. McElroy emphasizes patience, resilience and self-confidence as essential qualities for students entering the field. She encourages those just beginning their journey in dental hygiene to stay grounded in their passion and to give themselves space to grow.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way,” she said. “You’re not expected to have everything figured out right away. Confidence comes with time and experience.”
Dr. Heather Thomas, associate clinical professor and chair of the Department of Dental Hygiene, highlighted McElroy’s dedication to both innovation and student success.
“Ms. McElroy exemplifies teaching excellence through her innovation, rigor and unwavering dedication to student success,” Thomas said.
McElroy has also led efforts to research and implement a 3D interactive oral anatomy software program, which has since been integrated into the curriculum and proven to be highly beneficial and popular among students. Her work has expanded learning opportunities by providing diverse and engaging ways for students to understand complex material.
Beyond the classroom, McElroy finds fulfillment in the relationships she builds with students and the moments of growth she witnesses along the way. She describes the “ah-ha” moments students experience as particularly meaningful and values the opportunity to support their development from the beginning of the program through graduation and beyond.
“I also learn just as much from my students as they learn from me,” she said. “There hasn’t been a single student I’ve worked with that I haven’t learned from.”
Her commitment to student success is especially evident in the challenges she helps students overcome. McElroy recalls one experience with a student who initially struggled and questioned their ability to continue in the program. Through encouragement and guidance, she helped the student build confidence and trust in their abilities.
“They went on to excel in the program and are now a licensed provider who is extremely passionate about delivering high-quality care,” McElroy said. “It was a reminder that our role as educators goes beyond teaching content—it’s about helping students recognize their own ability to succeed.”
Colleagues echo this sentiment. “Haylee has a clear passion and expertise for teaching and is an invaluable asset to our department,” said Chadleo Webb, RDH, MDH, associate clinical professor in the Department of Dental Hygiene.
Receiving the Teacher of the Year award holds special significance for McElroy, reflecting both her dedication to teaching and the supportive community around her.
“I care deeply about my teaching and the learning environment I create for my students, so it’s very meaningful to have that recognized,” she said. “I wouldn’t be the educator I am today without the support of those around me.”
McElroy is highly deserving of the CHHS Teacher of the Year Award, recognized for her dedication to her students, her department, and her excellence in teaching.
Contributed by Business Administration, Marketing undergraduate student, Katie Fahy
Northern Arizona University