STAFF DIRECTORY
DENTAL CLINIC
Biographical Info
Rod joined the Dental Clinic as Administrative Manager in April 2021. He became part of the University Health Center family in April 2016 as a staff member of Business Service, and served from March 2019 to March 2021 as an Administrative Associate for Finance and Support Services. Prior to serving at University Health Center, Rod worked as manager for his family’s business for 28 years.
Biographical Info
Dr. John Leffert, Lead Dentist for the University Health Center’s Dental Clinic, has been on staff since 1999. He holds a BBA from UGA in marketing and a DMD from Medical College of Georgia. His areas of interest are endodontics and restorative dentistry.
Biographical Info
Dr. Josh Zaleski joined the health center staff in 2011. He earned a BS in biology from the University of Georgia and DMD from Medical College of Georgia. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the Georgia Dental Association. Before coming to UGA he owned and operated a private practice outside of Atlanta. His special areas of interest are cosmetic dentistry, endodontics, and crowns and bridges.
Biographical Info
Niki Stephenson joined the UHC staff as a dental hygienist in 2011. She earned an Associate of Applied Science degree from Athens Technical College and is a Registered Dental Hygienist. Previously she worked in private practice in Athens. Ms. Stephenson enjoys making patients feel comfortable, educating patients about their oral health, and encouraging patients to make healthy choices for their oral and overall health.
Biographical Info
Jackie Vaughn joined the UHC dental clinic as a hygienist in March 2023. She graduated with an Associate Degree of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene from Athens Technical College in 2006. She worked 16 years in private practice in before joining the University of Georgia. She loves educating her patients on ways to improve their oral health. One of her top priorities is making patients feel comfortable and at ease while in the dental chair.