Faculty

Pauline Stuckey, RDA,CDA

Meet Pauline Stuckey, Educator and Program Director, California Dental Educators (CDE)

Pauline Stuckey is a passionate educator and the driving force behind California Dental Educators as its Program Director. Originally from San Jose, California, she moved to the Sacramento area after high school, where an unexpected spark during a visit to Weideman Pediatric Dentistry with her children ignited a life-changing interest in dental assisting.

Determined to make a difference, Pauline earned her Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license in 2000 and spent seven rewarding years working with Dr. Weideman. There, she gained invaluable clinical experience and discovered her true calling—helping others launch fulfilling careers in dentistry.

With an Associate’s Degree in Dental Science and over 15 years of teaching experience, She took her Certified Dental Assisting (CDA) license through DANB in 2019 to further her knowledge in dentistry. Pauline has trained hundreds of dental assistants and RDAs across California. Her dedication to student success, combined with her expertise in curriculum development, has made her a respected leader in the field. At CDE, she manages course programming, supports instructors, and works closely with students—so if you’ve contacted CDE, chances are you've connected with her directly.

When she’s not shaping the next generation of dental professionals, Pauline enjoys soaking up sunshine by the pool with her husband and their loyal German Shepherd, Dakota. She’s an avid traveler and thrill-seeker—her favorite adventure so far? Scuba diving multiple islands in the Caribbean with her family and friends, with Bonaire topping her list of unforgettable destinations.

Tracie Ramage, RDA

Meet Tracie, Dental Educator

Tracie grew up in Redding, California, and relocated to Sacramento in 1992. She began her dental career by attending Western Career College, earning her Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license in 1996. She went on to work in a general dental practice for over eight years, gaining valuable clinical experience.

Driven by a passion for learning and teaching, Tracie returned to school to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in 2003, followed by a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology in 2012. She has spent the past 19 years teaching and mentoring future dental assistants, combining her clinical expertise with her love for education.

Outside the classroom, Tracie enjoys spending time with her nieces, twin sisters, family, and friends. During the summer, she takes advantage of the sunshine by cycling along the river trail, camping, and swimming by the pool.

Maria Francavilla, RDA,CDA

Meet Maria, Dental Educator

Maria grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, and from a young age knew she wanted to pursue a career in the dental field, inspired by her own experiences as a patient. After high school, she moved to Tampa, Florida, to study alongside her now husband at the University of South Florida, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in German Studies with an emphasis in Biomedical Sciences.

Maria furthered her education by obtaining a Certificate in Dental Assisting Education from Pima Community College. In 2020, she relocated to Davis, California, where she earned her Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license in 2021 and her Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) license in 2024.

With five years of experience working in general dental practices and exposure to a variety of specialties, Maria’s passion for continuous learning and mentoring naturally led her to a career in education at CDE.

In her free time, Maria enjoys a variety of crafty hobbies such as sewing, painting, and crocheting. She and her husband share their home with three beloved cats—Floki, Meeka, and Outback—who love spending time outdoors with them while they garden. Maria also enjoys staying active socially, exploring California through concerts, fairs, and outings with friends.