MEET OUR TEAM
Kathryn Pawlak, DDS
Executive Director & Founder
Dr. Kathryn Pawlak earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Before entering dental school, she began her mission in dental education by founding Planet Smilez, where she serves as Founder and Executive Director. Her inspiration for Planet Smilez began as a child when she was first exposed to the inequalities in dental healthcare access and the impact it has on systemic health through her own family’s lack of access to oral health care. With Planet Smilez, she organized international dental service trips to the Dominican Republic, Trinidad, and Tobago providing dental education for children. She also developed the Planet Smilez Discovering Dentistry Camp to enable middle school and high school students to experience the field of dentistry and provide mentorship opportunities.
She attended the University of Maryland School of Dentistry where she received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and was recognized nationally for her commitment to community engagement from the American Dental Education Association, Hispanic Dental Association, Dental Trade Alliance Foundation and Delta Dental Foundation.
She pursued her specialty training in pediatric dentistry at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital. She was the recipient of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Resident Recognition Award for her passion in dental education and outreach during her residency training program. Dr. Pawlak is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She is the recipient of the Richard Pugh Scholars Award for scoring in the top 3% of all candidates taking the written portion of the pediatric board exam by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry in 2021.
Dr. Kathryn is a dedicated provider who is an advocate for all children’s oral health. Her clinical interests include development of oral health pathways programs for pre-dental students, the pediatric dentist’s role in management of hematology / oncology patients, and maternal infant oral health. She is passionate about dental education and currently teaches pre-doctoral dental students and post-doctoral residents pediatric dentistry in Buffalo, NY.
Her professional affiliations include the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), American Dental Education Association (ADEA), American Association of Women Dentists (AAWD) and the American Dental Association (ADA).
Deborah Pilla, DDS
Chief Advisor
Dr. Deborah Pilla is a graduate of William Smith Colleges and the State University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree. She has been dedicated to advancing the oral health of children since 1986, when she established one of New York City’s first dental practices exclusively dedicated to children. She has been dedicated to serving as an advocate for children’s health through dental outreach efforts in the NYC Tri-state area and Ojo de Agua, Dominican Republic. As Chief Advisor to Planet Smilez, Dr. Pilla has been instrumental to advancing to leading dental outreach efforts both domestically and internationally with the Planet Smilez team.
Hanna-Lisa Starr
Chief of Staff
Hanna-Lisa Starr began her career in finance by working at two of the most prestigious hedge funds in New York. She spent three years at Point72, where she was a part of the highly acclaimed TMT team, regularly recognized as one of the best in the industry. After that, Hanna-Lisa joined Citadel Global Equities and had the opportunity to work directly with the Chief Investment Officer, contributing to the restructuring of the business.
In the fall of 2021, Hanna-Lisa made a career change and took on the role of Chief of Staff at Calibrate, a metabolic health company with a mission to revolutionize the approach to weight management. At Calibrate, she worked closely with the leadership team, focusing on strategy development, and also played a pivotal role in leading the firm's Series C fundraising efforts.
Hanna-Lisa thoroughly enjoys running during her leisure time, and has completed the New York City Marathon. Additionally, she has a deep rooted passion for exploring new places, having embarked on multiple journeys to Europe and Africa. Presently, Hanna-Lisa resides in Dallas, Texas with her husband and their beloved puppy, a German Shorthaired Pointer.
Ryan Shargel, DDS
Director of Operations
Dr. Ryan Shargel is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, a prestigious achievement that reflects his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of patient care and professional proficiency in periodontology and dental implantology.
He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry before pursuing advanced training in periodontology. He completed his specialty training in Periodontics at NYU College of Dentistry, where he honed his skills in diagnosing and treating complex periodontal cases. Committed to staying at the forefront of their field, Dr. Shargel regularly participates in continuing education courses and stays informed about the latest advancements in periodontal and implantology research.
Growing up in an immigrant family from the Ukraine, he realized the difficulties in access to routine dental care at a young age. Dr. Shargel is dedicated to bringing oral health education, career guidance and mentorship through community outreach to underserved populations. He is a proud executive member at Planet Smilez where he believes strongly in increasing dental professional workforce diversity to create early pathways into dentistry.
Jenni Helfer, DDS
Academic Advisor Director
Dr. Jennifer Helfer is a graduate of the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. While earning her dental degree, she served as both the class president and the ASDA District 2 Editor-in-Chief. She graduated Magna Cum Laude and was inducted into the OKU honor society. Prior to dental school, Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences with a concentration in Health Care Studies from Daemen College and a Master of Arts in Biological Sciences from the University at Buffalo. She is currently working on her Master of Business Administration from the University at Buffalo, anticipated to graduate in May 2024. In addition to working as a general dentist in Buffalo, NY, she also serves as the Assistant Director of Admissions at the University at Buffalo. Dr. Helfer has served as a nonprofit board member in the past, as well as currently a participant in the 2024 Leadership Buffalo class.
Nadine Mirza, DDS
Managing Director of Communications
Dr. Nadine Mirza was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and a lifelong Terrapin at heart. She completed her Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Maryland in Biology with Cum Laude distinctions in 2015 and earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry with Magna Cum Laude distinctions in 2019. Dr. Mirza then completed a three-year residency program at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, where she earned her specialty certificate in Prosthodontics, as well as a Master of Dental Science degree. During that time, she also completed a surgical fellowship under the Resnik Implant Institute for advanced training in surgical implantology and implant prosthetic rehabilitation. She then completed her Maxillofacial Prosthodontics and Oral Oncology fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Mirza believes that every life touched resonates for a lifetime, which is why every patient is worth taking the time for. Through individualized treatment planning and provision of high-quality restorative and prosthetic care, she strives to make a difference in each patient’s life. Dr. Mirza is an advocate for all patient’s oral health and has been involved in Planet Smilez outreach events since 2016.
Kristine Oladipo, DDS, MS
Managing Director of National Outreach
Dr. Kristine Oladipo was born and raised in Prince George’s County, Maryland. She is the oldest of four with two sisters and one brother. She received her Bachelors in Science from Temple University where she majored in Biology. After completing research in Gene Therapy and Gastroenterology at The University of Pennsylvania, she returned home where to complete her Master’s Degree in Biology at Towson University. Soon after, she began her quest towards obtaining a Doctorate in Dental Surgery, DDS, from the University of Maryland, Baltimore.
She started her dental school career with the goal of attending pediatric dental residency to change the negative perception that children often associate with going to the dentist. Eager to educate the youth, she volunteered with a number of dental outreach programs including the Deamonte Driver Mobile Dental Unit where she taught underserved children the importance of proper oral hygiene techniques as well as promoting careers in STEM as a volunteer math and science tutor. With her passion for outreach and serving the Baltimore community, she received The Outstanding Dean’s Award for Community Service.
She made her goals a reality and attended the NYU Langone Advanced Education in Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. For her outstanding scholastic achievement scoring in the top three percent nationally on the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry 2021 Qualifying Examination, Dr. Oladipo was awarded the Richard C. Pugh Scholar Award.
Throughout her education, Dr. Oladipo demonstrated excellence in her didactic classes, while also holding numerous leadership positions. Dr. Oladipo is a co-founder of Young Black American Doctor (YBAD) which is the largest social network of minority doctors aimed at promoting interdisciplinary healthcare. She is a current member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Maryland Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Academy of General Dentistry, and National Dental Association.
Currently, Dr. Oladipo continues volunteer work in the community with her sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, she also enjoys cooking, sleeping, reading and watching sports.
Dr. Oladipo is very excited to be working as the Managing Director of Outreach for Planet Smilez. Dr. Oladipo hopes to assist in the development of outreach programs that will promote the field of dentistry.
Lauren Gritzer, MPH, DDS
Oral Health Advocacy Officer
Dr. Lauren Gritzer is a dedicated dental professional with a strong commitment to community-based programs, mentoring, and career development. In the final stages of her Dental Public Health Residency at the University of California, San Francisco, she excels as Chief Resident, overseeing and coordinating the residency program. Lauren actively contributes to impactful community initiatives, including spearheading a comprehensive survey on water quality, training school nurses, disseminating oral health information, and establishing a career development program for at-risk adolescents.
Her dedication extends beyond clinical practice to leadership roles with various organizations. Lauren plays a pivotal role in mentoring aspiring professionals, leading workshops, and fostering career development programs. Her passion for mentorship is evident in her role as a Research Mentor, guiding health care professionals in research workshops. With a rich background in community outreach, program management, and mentorship, Lauren is a valuable asset to initiatives promoting community well-being, professional development, and oral health education.
Angel Lopez, DDS
Outreach Director Midwestern Region
Dr. Angel Lopez's journey in dentistry has been driven by a sincere desire to make a positive impact. Raised in San Antonio, Texas, he started his academic journey at Abilene Christian University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree. However, it was his early experiences that ignited his passion for the field.
Before pursuing his dental education at Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry, Dr. Lopez engaged in dental outreach missions. He had the privilege of serving in Haiti three times and Guatemala five times, providing essential dental care to underserved communities. These experiences, along with his involvement in local community projects, deepened his commitment to helping those at need.
Dr. Lopez's dedication to improving oral healthcare led him to Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry, where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Throughout his dental school journey, he actively participated in organizations like the Pediatric Dental Society, the Student National Dental Association, Miles for Smiles, and Give Kids a Smile, holding leadership roles and contributing to their missions.
Driven by his passion for pediatric dentistry, Dr. Angel pursued further specialization through a residency program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. Today, he proudly holds the distinction of being a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, reflecting his commitment to upholding the highest standards of care in his field.
Currently, Dr. Angel works full-time in private practice, where he brings his expertise to his patients. In addition, he serves as an educator, teaching post-doctoral residents in pediatric dentistry at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, sharing his knowledge and passion for the field with the next generation of dental professionals.
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Angel Lopez also has a passion for acting, with appearances in various films, advertisements, and commercials. He cherishes the power of artistry and enjoys pursuing creative endeavors in his spare time.
When not at work or in front of the camera, Dr. Lopez loves the great outdoors and engages in activities like hiking, rock climbing, and CrossFit. He shares his life with his faithful four-year-old dog, Barley. Driven by his values, he takes pride in being a minority doctor and believes firmly in treating everyone with fairness and compassion, regardless of their background or beliefs. His goal is to make the world a better place, one smile at a time!
Katherine Evans, DDS
Outreach Director Western Region
Dr. Evans was born and raised in Ellicott City, Maryland. She is a graduate of Virginia Tech (Go Hokies!) and graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Biological Sciences and a minor in Psychology. Following graduation, she pursued her lifelong dream of becoming a dentist, following in the footsteps of her grandfather and uncle, and received her D.D.S. degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. During her time in dental school, she quickly befriended Dr. Pawlak and soon after became involved in Planet Smilez. She completed a general practice residency at Christiana Care Hospital System in Wilmington, DE. Dr. Evans currently lives in Texas and splits her time between private practice, telehealth services, and serving as a clinical instructor at her local dental hygiene program. Her professional interests include dental sleep medicine, and she has attained Qualified Dentist status with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. She is working towards attaining Diplomate status with the AADSM and becoming a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. She volunteers her time with the Junior League of Grayson County, Mission of Mercy, and Planet Smilez. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, reading, and trying new restaurants.
Bob Pawlak, CPA
Chief Financial Officer
Bob Pawlak is the Chief Financial Officer for Planet Smilez Inc. and has both an undergraduate and graduate degree in Accounting from New Jersey City University. He is both a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) specializing in forensic/fraud accounting. His background includes a 38-year career working as a Large Case Senior Team Manager for the U.S. Treasury Department –Internal Revenue Service where he examined many of the Fortune 100 multinational corporations along with 30 years of teaching experience at New Jersey City University where he was an Adjunct Professor of Accounting. He is recently retired providing Planet Smilez with his lifetime of priceless skills to deal with the financial complexities of the tax exempt organization.
Justin Do, DDS
Social Coordinator
Dr. Justin Do is a general dentist that was born and raised in the DMV growing up in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Dr. Do completed his undergraduate education at University of Maryland, College Park (B.S. in Neurobiology/Physiology) and received his doctorate training at one of the premiere dental institutions in the world: University of Maryland, School of Dentistry. In dental school, Dr. Do was accepted into the competitive Oral Surgery clerkship which further enhanced his surgical experience in dental extractions and implants.
After graduating from dental school, Dr. Do pursued further education in a hospital based residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City to advance his knowledge in restorative, surgical, and cosmetic dentistry.
Vision, artistry and compassion are what Dr. Do prides himself on. He is committed to understanding individual needs and takes a detailed personalized approach in providing excellent patient care. Dr. Do is passionate about building strong bonds with her patients, improving oral health and creating the best possible functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Outside the office, Dr. Do enjoys being very active and pursuing his hobbies of playing soccer/tennis and going to musical concerts. Dr. Do also is an avid volunteer in the charity group Hope for Tomorrow which provides free dental/medical care to impoverished communities locally and countries abroad.
Antonetta D'Amelio
Chief Administrative Officer
Antonetta D’Amelio has over 30 years of experience working for fortune 500 corporations within the Insurance Brokerage Industry. Her area of expertise includes business development administration, financial forecasting new business sales analysis, global marketing, human resources, and multinational client relationship management.
Antonetta is bilingual in Italian and holds a dual Bachelors Degree in International Communications and Italian from State University of New York at New Paltz and the University of Urbino, Urbino Italy.
Anthony Petito, DDS, MD, FACS
Board of Directors
Dr. Anthony Petito received his DDS from the University of Maryland and his MD from the University of Connecticut. After completing an internship in General Surgery, he completed his residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and a clinical fellowship in Orthognathic and Reconstructive Jaw Surgery. He is board certified in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Anesthesiology. He holds Fellowship status in The American College of Surgeons and The American College of Dentists.
Dr. Petito served as Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery at Brown Medical School, and the Chief of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and Dentistry at The Miriam Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island. He retired from Hospital practice in 2016, after 18 years. He currently practices office based oral surgery, with emphasis on anesthesia and dental implantology. Dr Petito continues to lecture regularly at community, state, and national levels in the areas of dentistry and oral surgery.
In his spare time Dr. Petito has engaged in many community and philanthropic activates. While raising his family he served as a Fire Commissioner, as well as Scoutmaster for Boy Scout troop 1 in his home town of East Greenwich, RI. He also served as Senior Warden for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in North Kingstown, RI. Dr. Petito is an avid supporter of many worthwhile causes, most recently the ALS association of Rhode Island, and The Viola Project in Huntington, New York.
