Rate My Professor Rebel Chapa

Chapa's research specializations include geriatric dentistry and the integration of elder abuse training in dental hygiene curricula. Her master's thesis examined the extent of elder abuse education, culminating in the 2019 peer-reviewed article 'Extent of Elder Abuse Training in Dental Hygiene Curricula and Program Directors’ Perceptions of Importance of and Barriers to Implementation,' published in the Journal of Dental Education. This work highlighted that 83.3% of responding programs include such training, typically for one to three hours, while identifying barriers and perceptions of graduate competency. She presented related research at the American Dental Hygienists’ Association annual session. In 2024, Chapa co-presented 'Enhancing Student Engagement with the Team-Based Learning Strategy' at the 82nd Texas Dental Hygienists’ Association Conference. As Co-chair of the Professional Development Committee for Dental Hygiene Educators of Texas, she contributes to advancing educator resources. Chapa has engaged in public outreach, co-presenting on the links between oral health and overall health, including cardiovascular connections, at a 2016 Northeast Campus event. Through her publications, presentations, committee service, and teaching, Chapa impacts dental hygiene education and prepares students to address critical health issues.