Instructors and Doctors
The best education comes from having the best teachers
We know a thing or two about dentistry. The dental assisting school was founded by Cumberland Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics (CPDO), formed by a group of dentists with the mission to provide quality dental care. They, along with a several other general and pediatric dentists, come from all walks of life to bring you the best dental knowledge and discipline you’ll find in Tennessee.
However, being a great instructor comes with its own set of skills. Our teachers have worked and gathered experience from a variety of dental practices, and have trained and instructed many other dental assistants. They have trained some of the best in the field, and now they’re ready to teach you!
Our Team
Lori Hoge
Program Director, Lead Instructor
Registered Dental Assistant
Lori is a mom or two very busy, sports-loving boys and has been married to her wonderfully supportive husband for 14 years in August. In their free time they love to get outdoors and attend just about any sporting event (Roll Tide!).
With nearly 20 years experience in the field of dental, her passion for all thing dentistry has only grown. Having worked in most dental specialties, she has come to realize that she loves the role of instructor the most. Working in the classroom not only allows her the opportunity to share her enthusiasm with the next generation of dental experts, but to also stay up to date on the most recent advances in this amazing field.
Stephanie Diaz
Instructor
Registered Dental Assistant
Stephanie is a bilingual dental assistant and dedicated instructor with a passion for developing the next generation of dental professionals. With a strong foundation in clinical excellence and patient care, she brings real-world experience into the classroom. Known for her professionalism, organization, and positive attitude, Stephanie creates an engaging, supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to succeed and grow with confidence.
Dr. Jack Stalker
Clinical Director; Partner
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Jack Stalker is a native Tennessean raised in Knoxville. After four years of college at Carson Newman College in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Dr. Jack attended dental school at the University of Tennessee, where he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Realizing his enjoyment of working with children, he elected to train for two additional years in pediatric dentistry. He holds a certificate in pediatric dentistry and a master’s degree in science from the University of Texas. Dr Jack worked in a large group practice in Atlanta before moving to Nashville and becoming a co-founder of Cumberland in 2012.
Dr. Jack received advanced training in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral disease, as well as the treatment of children under general anesthesia, oral conscious sedation, and use of nitrous oxide. He has received certification in PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support), BLS (Basic Life Support), and CPR. Dr Jack is a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and the Tennessee Dental Association. In his spare time, Dr Jack cheers for both the Tennessee Vols and Tennessee Titans. He also enjoys flying, cooking, and spending time with his wife Ginny and their family.
