03/04/2026
Introducing Dr. Jessica Hardy, a Southern Utah University alum and US Navy Veteran. Growing up on a farm in Price, UT, Dr. Hardy initially planned on becoming a large-animal veterinarian. After joining the Utah Health Scholars program and assisting a dentist on our trip to Nicaragua, her career goals shifted: "I realized dentistry wasn’t just about teeth, it was about restoring dignity, crossing cultural and language barriers, and making an immediate difference in someone’s quality of life. From then on, I was hooked."
Following her acceptance to Midwestern University’s College of Dental Medicine, Dr. Hardy received a Health Professions Scholarship through the U.S. Navy. This opportunity led her to serve in the Navy for 6 years, where she cared for sailors and Marines across the country. Dr. Hardy now acts as the Associate Clinical Professor, and Staff Dentist at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ.
Outside of dentistry, Dr. Hardy has a passion for public health and all things horses. In fact, Dr. Hardy attended Southern Utah University on a rodeo scholarship! Her biggest message? "Those of us in dentistry, dentists, hygienists, and assistants, are here because we care deeply about helping. We’re partners in your health, ready to listen and work alongside you so you can smile, eat, and live with confidence."
