Jessica Rickert
Jessica Ann Rickert | |
|---|---|
| Born | Michigan |
| Alma mater | University of Michigan |
| Occupation | Dentist |
| Known for | Being the first female American Indian dentist in America |
Jessica Ann Rickert became the first female American Indian dentist in America upon graduating with a DDS from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1975. She was one of only six women in a class of 140 students. She is a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, and a direct descendant of the Indian chief Wahbememe (Whitepigeon).
Early life and education
Rickert grew up in Wyoming, Michigan. She graduated high school in 1968 and attended the University of Michigan for her undergraduate degree.
Career
In addition to being a dentist, she is also a founder of the Society of American Indian Dentists, which was founded in 1990.
Honors
She was inducted into the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame in 2009.
In 2022, she received the American Dental Education Association’s William J. Gies Award for Achievement.