Each month an ADEA Connect Ambassador will be highlighted based on their contributions to ADEA Connect. Learn more about ambassador responsibilities in the ADEA Connect Ambassador Overview.
Prof. Emily Ludwig is the Community Ambassador for the ADEA Section on Dental Hygiene Education. Read more about Prof. Ludwig and her professional experience below.
Say Hello to Emily Ludwig, RDH, MSDH
Assistant Professor
Old Dominion University
What professional tips or advice would you like to share about your profession?
My advice for those in the dental hygiene profession would be to build a relationship with a mentor or many! Whether that be as a clinical dental hygienist or a dental hygienist working as an educator or a researcher. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for feedback! Bounce ideas off your colleagues to work towards a solution. Also, give yourself time to relax and stress manage!
What is your #1 reason for becoming an ADEA member?
My number one reason for being an ADEA member is lengthy! To continually educate myself, gain insight into new treatment, research, and curriculum modalities, learn more about diversity and inclusion, and network with accomplished individuals in all facets of dentistry to make myself the best dental hygiene educator, researcher, and clinician I can be.
What has been the most rewarding experience of your career?
So far, the most rewarding experience of my career is two-fold. First, it has been building relationships with my mentors and colleagues at Old Dominion University who have been instrumental in making me a better educator and researcher and who have also been instrumental in my recognition for my efforts thus far in teaching, research, and service. Second, it has been the opportunity to work with students, seeing those “lightbulb” moments, increasing their critical thinking skills, and assisting in their success in becoming competent dental hygienists.
How has ADEA Connect been useful to you?
ADEA Connect has been useful because it allows for easy discussion with other professionals. ADEA Connect also gives frequent updates and emails which makes it easy to stay on top of discussion threads and shared documents and information. It has been a great space for open discussion and to ask questions; a great place to get a different perspective or insight!
What is your favorite hobby or place to travel?
I love to work out, I am a certified Pure Barre (Pilates-inspired workout) instructor! I also love to travel and am always in search of great food, coffee, and experiences. My favorite place I have traveled thus far is a close tie between Iceland and the Netherlands!