About Me
Welcome to my Professional Portfolio, my name is Lainey Foster. I am a dedicated and passionate dental hygiene professional with over a decade of experience in clinical practice and higher education. Currently serving as a full-time tenure-track instructor and clinical coordinator at Columbus State Community College, I’m committed to shaping the next generation of dental hygienists through evidence-based teaching and hands-on mentorship. My academic journey includes a Master's in Higher Education, Bachelor of Science in Allied Health, and an Associate of Science Dental Hygiene. Beyond the classroom, I’m actively involved in professional leadership through the Ohio Dental Hygienists’ Association and the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, where I’ve held various roles that have strengthened my organizational and advocacy skills. I’m driven by a passion for empowering students, upholding the highest standards in patient care, and contributing to the advancement of the dental hygiene profession.
Professional Philosophy
My personal philosophy and professional philosophy are closely aligned, both emphasizing a humanistic approach. The values and principles that guide me have been shaped by many individuals I've encountered throughout my education and professional life. During my time as a dental hygiene student, I was greatly influenced by my faculty members, who instilled qualities in me that I am eager to pass down to my own students. The Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership is also a guide for how I wish to show up in my career, not only for my students, but in my collaboration with other faculty and administration. I believe that mentorship and serving as a role model can have a profound impact on students’ education journey and beyond.
The foundation of my teaching philosophy is the belief that learning should be student-centered. I want to foster an environment where each student feels supported and empowered to reach their full potential. When I transitioned from a clinical dental hygienist to dental hygiene educator, my goal was to develop highly skilled and professional dental hygienists by leading as a role model. I prioritize individualized learning and one-on-one guidance with students, providing feedback that is encouraging yet constructive. This helps students identify areas for growth while reinforcing their successes, building confidence and resilience. Each student faces unique obstacles and challenges, and I am there to support and guide them through those moments. I believe that when students feel understood and appreciated for their efforts, they are more likely to persist in the face of challenges and maintain a growth mindset.
Critical thinking and collaboration are another essential component of my teaching practice. After each learning activity or clinic session, I ask students to reflect on what went well and what they learned. Clinic is the perfect opportunity to practice critical thinking, connecting course material with real-world applications. When we reflect on our experiences as a group, students have the opportunity to learn from each other and gain multiple perspectives.
In my career, I have had the pleasure of combining my passion for dental hygiene with my purpose, which is education. I lead with my heart by building authentic relationships with my students, listening to their concerns, and offering my support when needed. I implement the qualities of a leader that I find to be the most important, in hopes to pass on those values of professionalism, empathy, problem-solving, and integrity. I hope to inspire a shared vision within my department and reinforce the actions that contribute to student success.
--Lainey
Diversity & Inclusion Statement
Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) are terms that are all related, but each hold its own significance. Together, these words reflect the objective of fostering a society where every individual can find their path and have the tools to succeed. The opposite of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging is uniformity, imbalance, exclusion, and isolation. In this type of world, diverse perspectives are lost, and we are disconnected from one another. Without equity, there is an imbalance of resources, opportunity, and power. While these four concepts can be broad and interpreted in both positive and negative ways, DEIB is essential to create a campus environment where all students, faculty, and staff feel respected, welcomed, and supported by those around them.
There is no reality where diversity does not exist at all times. No two people on the entire planet are the same. The world is made up of very diverse individuals with various experiences, ages, cultures, languages, abilities, education, ethnicities, beliefs, religions, genders, and hobbies. Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging should not be seen as a threat and should be welcomed throughout society. In this divisive age of misinformation and fear mongering, I want stand on the side with empathy and understanding.
Many of us have our belief system shaped from a young age, influenced by our parents, teachers, community, and exposure to media or books. I was raised in an urban neighborhood of Columbus, which has always valued community, supported each other, and celebrated people from all walks of life. Clintonville is described as the “free spirit” of Columbus, and a welcoming place for families. Since elementary school, I have been fortunate to be surrounded by classmates and teachers from a diverse background. Diversity has been the norm in my life, and I am very grateful to have been shaped by values that prioritize empathy.
At Columbus State Community College, we are proud to be one of the most racially and ethnically diverse higher education institutions in the state, with over 130 different countries represented in the student body. Equity, belonging and student success are the foundation of our mission, vision, and values. As an educator, my purpose is to make every student feel valued and respected. I am not there to just teach content but rather recognize and address the barriers that underrepresented groups may face to ensure equal opportunities for success.
In these complicated times, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are more important than ever. The represent a society where everyone can thrive and contribute to the collective, no matter their race, gender, religion, or background. Words may be restricted or manipulated, but they can’t take away my heart and passion for justice. History may be erased, and DEIB departments may be dismantled, but I stand firm on my commitment to advocate for student success, uplift marginalized groups, and embrace individuals from different backgrounds. The fight for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging doesn’t end with legislation or this political divide. It is a continuous and personal journey of advocating for what is right, no matter the obstacles in our path.