In a profession long dominated by men — and even more rarely welcoming to Native Americans — Dr. Jessica Rickert stepped into the spotlight and changed the narrative.
Born a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, Dr. Rickert didn’t just become a dentist. In 1975, she became the first Native American woman in U.S. history to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree — breaking through a wall of barriers not just for herself, but for generations to come.
🏛️ One of Six Women in a Sea of 140 Men
At the University of Michigan’s School of Dentistry, Jessica Rickert was one of only six women in a class of 140 students. But her challenges weren’t just about gender. As an Indigenous woman, she often felt invisible — or worse — in a system that wasn’t built to support her.
“I never saw anyone who looked like me in my textbooks. That’s when I knew – I had to become that person for someone else.”
💡 Creating Paths Where None Existed
Rather than simply celebrate her success, Dr. Rickert dedicated her career to lifting others. In 1990, she became a founding member of the Society of American Indian Dentists (SAID) – a professional community built to support, mentor, and empower Native dentists.
She has also partnered with tribes like the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians and the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe, bringing both oral healthcare and education directly to Native communities in need.
🚗 Taking Dental Care to the People
In her role as Anishinaabe Dental Outreach Specialist for Delta Dental of Michigan, Dr. Rickert doesn’t just talk about access — she drives hundreds of miles to remote and underserved communities to promote preventive dental care and oral health education.
Her mission? To ensure that no Native child grows up believing dental care is out of reach.
🏆 Recognition for a Life of Service
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Inducted into the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame in 2009
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Honored with the William J. Gies Award by the American Dental Education Association in 2022
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Continues to inspire through talks, outreach, and mentorship across the country
“Representation saves lives. I know because I lived in a world without it — and chose to create one that does.”
✍️ Conclusion: A Smile That Changed the Future
Dr. Jessica Rickert’s story isn’t just about being “the first.” It’s about being fearless enough to lead and compassionate enough to bring others with you.
Today, thanks to her courage and vision, more Native students are applying to dental school than ever before, and the path she once walked alone is now traveled by many.
👉 Feeling inspired?
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