Northern Arizona Oral Health Coalition Names 2025 Northern Arizona Oral Health Heroes of the Year Presented by Delta Dental of Arizona

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (April 29, 2025) — The Northern Arizona Oral Health Coalition (NAzOHC), whose mission is to improve the public's oral and general wellness with the focus on vulnerable populations through community partnerships, is pleased to announce Sandi Perez, Ph.D. and Lydia Cockayne, RHD as its 2025 Northern Arizona Oral Health Heroes of the Year, presented by Delta Dental of Arizona.

“Northern Arizona is fortunate to have leaders who not only advocate for change but actively work to make it happen. Sandi is a tireless advocate for oral health, early childhood development, and healthcare access,” says Peter Van Wyck, co-chair of NAzOHC and senior director of the northeast regional area for First Things First. “A true champion for oral health equity, Lydia has dedicated her career and volunteer efforts to ensuring that underserved communities receive the dental care they deserve.”

Perez served as the executive director of the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation from 2006 to 2017, playing a pivotal role in funding and supporting critical oral health initiatives, ensuring that underserved and underinsured communities received the care they needed.

“Her expertise in funding strategies, advocacy, and motivational interviewing has not only secured vital resources but has also inspired and empowered those working with her, me included,” said Barb Kozuh, executive director of the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation, which works across the state to improve the health and wellness of underserved populations. Northern Arizona partners have included Flagstaff Medical Center, North Country Health Care, NAU School of Dental Hygiene, Coconino County Cooperative Extension, Northern Arizona Council of Government, Verde Valley Medical Center, and more.

Perez has also been an integral part of the Northern Arizona Health Coalition, a driving force behind the Northern Arizona Dental Days initiative, and a dedicated member of the State Oral Health Coalition Leadership Team. She also serves on the Coconino County board for First Things First, supporting early childhood programs that promote overall health and wellness for families in Northern Arizona.

“Sandi has worked with healthcare providers, oral health advocates, and nonprofit organizations to bridge gaps in care, particularly in Apache and Navajo Counties, where access to dental services remains a significant challenge,” said Kozuh. “Through her philanthropy, leadership, and mentorship, Sandi has worked to improve the way oral health is approached in Northern Arizona.”

Cockayne, a registered dental hygienist who still practices in Flagstaff, has more than 20 years of experience in both professional and volunteer roles as it relates to oral health. She has been a driving force behind Northern Arizona’s Dental Days, ensuring that these vital community events have the volunteer support needed to provide free dental care to those in need.

“As a member of the Dental Days’ executive committee, she personally visits dental offices, recruits volunteers, and spreads awareness, making sure that no opportunity to expand outreach goes untapped. Her enthusiasm and energy inspire others to get involved, fostering a culture of service and community engagement,” said Van Wyck.

Cockayne’s passion for oral health advocacy began during her time at North Country HealthCare, where she spent six years providing oral health education and dental screenings to elementary schools throughout Coconino County. She ensured that young children received early dental care and understood the importance of good oral hygiene—helping to set the foundation for lifelong oral health habits. Beyond education, Cockayne has been a key organizer and leader in major charitable dental events, including AZMOM North, where she serves as lead in radiology and dental triage.

Nominations for the 2025 award were open to individuals living and working in Coconino County who engage in raising awareness about the importance of oral health; actively support oral health across the lifespan; lead and organize oral health activities for the underserved, including, but not limited to, direct oral health services.