Meet Our Staff
North Santiam Family Dentistry, Stayton OR
Danielle – Hygienist
Danielle is the incredible hygienist every dental practice wants… with the gentle hands and caring heart every patient desires. She has been with us full-time for many years. Danielle received her Bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from Oregon Tech in 2012. Originally from Southern Oregon, she moved to our area shortly after graduating. Danielle and her husband enjoy spending time with family, exploring our region, and various outdoor activities. Danielle’s favorite part of her job is developing long-lasting relationships with her patients.
Sandy – Treatment Coordinator
Sandy has been a valued member of this dental team for more years than she is willing to admit! Long before Dr. Van Kirk bought this practice, Sandy originally worked here as an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant for Dr. Roger Van Santen, when his father still owned the practice. Over the years, Sandy has progressed through every possible auxiliary function in this practice. Today she helps Dr. Van Kirk’s patients understand their proposed treatment and costs, as well as their financial options. Sandy grew up in Stayton, and has so many relatives here that she may find it difficult deciding on which side of the aisle to sit at a local wedding! She and her husband Ronnie have proudly raised 2 sons, Jared and Jonathan. They all enjoy spending time together with family and friends, and going camping and fishing. Sandy enjoys her long-term relationships with our patients, and being able to help them with their dental needs.
Lynn – Patient Care Coordinator
Lynn is probably the first friendly face you will see when you enter our practice. She has over 34 years of experience in the dental field, so she can help you with just about any of your needs. She has worked both as a dental assistant as well as in front office positions. Lynn enjoys working with patients and seeing the difference that dental treatment can make in their lives.
Lynn grew up in Southern Oregon, and has lived in the Salem/Stayton area for 39 years. She considers any day on the lake a GREAT DAY! Boating, kayaking, camping, etc. Lynn also enjoys rodeos, Harley rides, and Nascar. Her greatest joy in life are her grandkids! She loves spending time with them, and wishes they lived closer. Lynn also loves spending quality time with her best friend Barry.
Sunny is our other multi-talented new Dental Hygienist, with much experience in dentistry. Caring for others is important to her, and she takes great pride in being a health care professional who provides the community with high quality, patient-centered care and health education. She often volunteers at dental clinics to help those in need. Prior to attending hygiene school, Sunny used her previous studies in music, French, and art to great success as an Event Manager and Cellar Master at a local winery. She and her husband have been married for over 28 years, and have 5 children and 2 grandchildren. Sunny loves watching football, camping, and adventuring outdoors.
Stephanie (on right) is the newest member of our team, but she is certainly not new to dentistry! She made her career in dentistry long ago and stuck with it, so she apparently really likes it! We like her too. She knows what she’s doing, and she also likes to have fun along the way. Chances are, you won’t have an experience with her that doesn’t involve some joking around. But she can also help put your mind at ease and make you feel comfortable in the dental chair.
Stephanie and her husband share two boys that are the center of their lives. Stephanie’s hobbies include being a connoisseur of all things Disney, traveling (Disney), and maybe even singing (Disney). Many of her scrubs are Disney-themed too. She also likes going to plays/musicals (sometimes Disney), and also has some Polynesian-themed hobbies. If you’re thinking of going on a vacation, just ask Stephanie! She’s got connections…