Dr. Christa Hopp is a graduate of Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine where she also completed a one year Advanced Education in General Dentistry Program. From there she entered a local private practice and began as an SIU SDM part-time instructor shortly there after. In 2006 she moved to a full time position in the operative section with promotion and tenure in 2015. Her teaching focus has been foundational and evolving operative dentistry curriculum and practice. In 2023, she advanced to the administrative role of Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, and now has responsibility supporting and developing the overall SIU SDM curriculum. Dr. Hopp continues to direct or assist in all pre-clinical operative dentistry courses and oversee student patient care in the dental clinic. While focusing on educating future dental professionals, she continues to stay current as a general dentist, practicing one day a week for the past 20 years.