Michelle Baxter

Dedicated to building bridges between disciplines in healthcare, Michelle L. Baxter is an esteemed Assistant Professor at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and School of Nursing. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from the University of Louisville, she is also a certified Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. Her academic and professional journey is marked by a profound commitment to enhancing the understanding of the intricate relationship between oral health and whole-body health, with a special emphasis on underserved populations. Professor Baxter's research is driven by a passion for improving healthcare outcomes through interdisciplinary collaboration. Her work seeks to illuminate the critical connections between oral health and systemic health, advocating for comprehensive care approaches that address the needs of vulnerable communities. Her dedication to this field is reflected in her active role as Co-Chair of the Academic Affiliate Fellowship Committee at the American Academy of Oral Medicine. In addition to her research and teaching responsibilities, Michelle Baxter is a respected member of several professional organizations. Her affiliations include the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Academy of Oral Medicine, where she contributes to advancing the field through collaboration and shared knowledge. Her involvement in these organizations underscores her commitment to professional development and her desire to influence policy and practice in nursing and oral health. Throughout her career, Professor Baxter has been recognized for her innovative approach to healthcare education and her dedication to fostering a holistic understanding of health among her students. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of integrating diverse healthcare perspectives to prepare future practitioners for the complexities of modern healthcare environments. Michelle Baxter's contributions to the University of Louisville and the broader healthcare community are characterized by her unwavering dedication to improving health outcomes for all, particularly those in underserved populations. Her work continues to inspire students and colleagues alike, as she champions the cause of comprehensive, patient-centered care.