Meet Sherri Lukes
Sherri Lukes, RDH, MS, FAADH is an award-winning dental educator, national speaker, and advocate for mental health awareness in dentistry. With more than 40 years of experience in the profession and 28 years in academia, Sherri brings depth, credibility, and compassion to every presentation.
She retired as an Associate Professor from the Southern Illinois University Dental Hygiene Program, where she taught oral pathology, community oral health, and multicultural dental hygiene. Her research and peer reviewed publications focus on underserved populations, oral pathology and the older adult dental patient.
While previously recognized nationally for presenting primarily oral pathology courses, in recent years Sherri’s speaking has increasingly focused on mental health in dentistry, including suicide awareness, burnout, trauma, and psychological safety. Her programs are recognized for combining rigorous science with powerful real-life examples that challenge stigma and foster meaningful reflection.
A Pathology Fellow and approved speaker of the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Sherri is a past president of the Illinois Dental Hygienists’ Association and a recipient of numerous national and state honors, including the American Dental Hygienists’ Association Award for Excellence in Dental Hygiene.
Through her teaching, speaking, and service, Sherri Lukes is committed to helping dental professionals better understand the human beings behind the teeth—and to advancing a profession that values mental health as essential to ethical, compassionate care.
Authority, Honors, & Service
Academic & Professional
- 40+ years in dentistry; 28 years in academia (Associate Professor, Southern Illinois University)
- Expertise in oral pathology, mental health in dentistry, and underserved populations
- Pathology Fellow and approved speaker, American Academy of Dental Hygiene
- Past President, Illinois Dental Hygienists’ Association
- SIU Research Paper of the Year
Honors & Recognition
- ADHA Award for Excellence in Dental Hygiene (highest honor)
- Sunstar/RDH Award of Distinction
- Oral Health Champion, Illinois Department of Public Health
Service & Advocacy
- Led biannual service trips to central Mexico providing care in orphanages and remote villages
- Volunteer presenter, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
* Professional speaking engagements for dental organizations are offered independently of volunteer work.
