Article edited on 10/17/25 to update biographical information.
Kelsey Sloane, DDS, has received the CDA Foundation’s Webb Family Grant for 2025. Dr. Sloane, a 2022 graduate of the University of the Pacific Arthur A Dugoni School of Dentistry, now practices dentistry where she grew up in Humboldt County, California.
Experiencing dental health disparities firsthand
“I was born and raised behind the redwood curtain in rural Northern California,” Sloane says proudly. “Growing up, my family and I were accustomed to limited access to health care resources due to a shortage of medical professionals willing to live hours away from the attractions of a bigger town.”
Sloane notes that in recent years, access to dental and medical care has declined beyond the levels she experienced as a child. “Traveling out of the area for basic services is becoming the norm,” she says. The Health Professional Shortage Area rating for Humboldt County, where Sloane now practices, is rated 24 out of 26, with 26 being the highest level of need. “Approximately 70% of my patients qualify for Medi-Cal benefits.”
‘A privilege to care for multiple generations of Native families’
After earning her doctor of dental surgery degree from UOP, Sloane returned to her rural town in Humboldt County to complete an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at Open Door Community Health Centers, where she discovered her passion for public health dentistry.
Following residency, Sloane accepted a position as a dentist with United Indian Health Services in Arcata. There are 11 recognized native tribes in Humboldt County and UIHS serves all members of these tribes.
“In the almost two years I have been with this organization, I have learned how to deliver culturally continuous care and participated in community outreach events engaging with the population I serve,” says Sloane.
Several times each month, Sloane and her team travel two hours away to satellite sites to provide dental services to populations that otherwise have no access to care. “Through the full range of services we offer, I have been able to complete treatment plans and improve the health of members of my community,” she adds. “I consider it a privilege to care for multiple generations of Native families and find deep fulfillment in supporting remote populations that face barriers to reliable dental care.”
Sloane’s commitment to public health embodies the spirit of the Webb Family Grant. “I have worked in public health for the entirety of my career and wish to continue feeling the direct rewards that come from offering my skills to a population in need,” says Sloane. “I plan to continue to build upon my skills in general dentistry and one day transition into a leadership role in my organization, helping to develop and grow the field of dentistry as I expand my outreach.”
About the Webb Family Grant
A spirit of giving is the impetus behind the Webb Family Grant. As founding contributors of the CDA Foundation, Russell Webb, DDS, and his wife, Kathi Webb, demonstrate a generosity and commitment to volunteerism that has inspired the dental community to fund this annual award and support past recipients.
In 2023, the grant expanded eligibility for applicants to include (1) students or recent graduates of a board-approved dental assisting or hygiene program and (2) educational programs approved by California’s dental board or dental hygiene board. The deserving recipient may receive up to $5,000 for educational or program expenses.
The Foundation will accept applications for the 2026 Webb Family Grant from April 1 through May 31. Awardees will be notified in fall 2026.
The CDA Foundation offers financial support to dental professionals and community-based organizations statewide that provide dental care to underserved communities. Learn about all the Foundation’s grants, awards and programs.