Erica Ferreira RDH, BS
My passion for dental hygiene began with a desire to help others improve their health, confidence, and quality of life. After graduating during the COVID-19 pandemic, I began my career as a Registered Dental Hygienist and have spent the past six years caring for patients while continuing to grow both personally and professionally.
While practicing full-time, I earned my Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from SUNY Oswego. After relocating to Albany, New York, I began working as a temporary hygienist, allowing me to experience a variety of practice settings and connect with dental professionals across the region. Through those experiences, I realized I wasn't just learning how different offices operate—I was discovering what dental hygienists truly need to feel confident, supported, and successful.
That realization inspired the creation of PATHway Professionals— a professional resource hub offering evidence-based education, practical clinical tools, career guidance, and ongoing support for dental hygiene students and professionals throughout every stage of their careers.
Donna Burgess RDH, MSED
I have dedicated my career to advancing the dental hygiene profession through education, mentorship, advocacy, and lifelong learning. With decades of experience in both general and periodontal dental hygiene, I am passionate about helping dental hygiene students and practicing clinicians build the knowledge, confidence, and skills they need to provide exceptional patient care.
I earned my Master of Education in Health Careers Education from the State University of New York at Oswego. Throughout my career, I have combined my educational background with extensive clinical experience to develop practical, evidence-based resources that bridge the gap between the classroom and everyday clinical practice.
Professional leadership and service have always been important to me. I have had the privilege of serving as President of the New York State Dental Hygienists' Association, representing dental hygienists as both a Director and Delegate, and contributing to statewide advocacy through the Committee on Governmental Affairs, Advocacy, and Policy. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to supporting our profession and helping shape its future.
As Co-Founder of PATHway Professionals, my mission is to empower dental hygiene students and professionals through accessible educational resources, mentorship, career development, and continuing education. I believe that when we invest in knowledge, confidence, and lifelong learning, we elevate both our profession and the quality of care we provide to our patients. I am honored to be part of a community that is committed to helping dental professionals grow, succeed, and make a lasting impact.
Our Why
PATHway Professionals was founded with one simple vision: to create the resource we wished we had throughout our own dental hygiene journeys.
As a practicing dental hygienist and an experienced educator, we've experienced the questions, challenges, and opportunities that come with every stage of the profession—from hygiene school and board preparation to clinical practice, career growth, and continuing education.
Along the way, we recognized a common need: one trusted place where students and professionals could find reliable education, practical clinical resources, career guidance, and a supportive community.
That's why we created PATHway Professionals.
Our mission is to educate, empower, and elevate dental hygiene professionals by providing the knowledge, tools, and encouragement needed to grow with confidence. Whether you're beginning your journey as a student, entering clinical practice, or advancing your career, we're here to support you every step of the way.
No matter where you are in your dental hygiene journey, we're honored to be part of your path.