Ellen Gambardella, CDA, MEd is an acclaimed author and educator who has lectured nationally and internationally. She was selected as Most Effective Dental Assistant Educator in the United States as the result of a nationwide search. The Massachusetts Dental Society presented her with their Special Award for Teacher of the Year, and she is the recipient of the Goldin Foundation Award for Excellence in Education and the Dr. LeClaire Dental Health Professional Award for innovative and impassioned teaching. The United States Air Force recognized Ellen for her educational support of the 66th Dental Flight and Medical Group. She was recently awarded the title of Fellow from the ADAA. She is a former faculty member of Tufts and Northeastern Universities and Middlesex Community College.