Michelle Lee Lawton
Michelle Lawton serves as the Executive Director of the Dental Care Access Foundation (DCAF), a role that reflects both her lifelong passion for service and her deep commitment to improving access to dental care for those in need. As one of DCAF's earliest volunteers, beginning with the organization's founding in 2004, Michelle has witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that compassionate dental care can have on a person's health, confidence, and quality of life. In late 2023, Michelle assumed the role of Executive Director, bringing with her nearly two decades of dedication to DCAF's mission and a deep understanding of the communities it serves, along with more than 25 years of experience in the dental profession.
Michelle believes that dental health is health and that access to dental care should never be a privilege reserved for a few. She is driven by the belief that the ability to improve someone's health, confidence, and quality of life is a remarkable gift, and that using those talents in service to others is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen a community. Her work is centered on advocating for underserved populations, building meaningful partnerships, and ensuring that every patient is treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
One of Michelle's greatest passions is working alongside Pre-Dental students and helping them discover the profound impact they can have through a career in dentistry. She believes that the future of the profession depends not only on clinical excellence, but also on a commitment to service, compassion, and community engagement. Through DCAF's volunteer programs and educational partnerships, she works closely with students to provide meaningful opportunities for hands-on learning, mentorship, and service to underserved populations. Michelle believes that today's Pre-Dental students are tomorrow's leaders, and she is passionate about helping them understand that dentistry is not only a profession, but also an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. For Michelle, helping students connect their passion for dentistry with a purpose greater than themselves is among the most rewarding aspects of her work.
When she is not serving the community through DCAF, Michelle enjoys spending time with her daughter, Natalea, who inspires her every day. She loves getting lost in a good book, exploring nature on mountain bike trails, and volunteering in efforts that support individuals experiencing hunger. Michelle believes that small acts of compassion, when multiplied across a community, have the power to create meaningful and lasting change.