Meet the Team

We pride ourselves on creating a friendly, welcoming environment where your care is our top priority. Get to know the team who makes it all happen—we can’t wait to see you!

Shawnae was born and raised in Wabash, Indiana, where she developed her strong Midwestern values and love for community. She and her husband David later made Pella home for 17 wonderful years, raising their three children – Kristen, Kloe, and Kamden. When their three grandchildren – Avery, Blakely, and Everly – arrived, Shawnae and her husband David happily followed their hearts to Ankeny to be closer to family.

Professionally, Shawnae brings a diverse and well-rounded background that includes experience as a business owner, as well as roles in regional sales, marketing, and administration. Her versatility, strong work ethic, and ability to adapt allow her to seamlessly take on a variety of responsibilities while providing exceptional support to both her team and patients. Shawnae looks forward to welcoming and working with the patients of Lawson Dentistry, where she is commited to creating a positive and friendly experience for everyone who walks through the door.

Shawnae and her husband enjoy spending weekends with loved ones, catching the latest movies, riding motorcycles, and playing pickleball. Traveling is a passion, and they’re always ready for their next adventure.

Sabrina has been a hygienist for over 14 years and loves all the proactive and holistic ways we can now help patients. Sabrina loves traveling anywhere – especially where it is warm and she can try new foods! She loves hanging it with her family, friends, and cat, Nala. Sabrina will be getting married in April 2025!

Originally from Knoxville, Tennessee, Kara moved to Des Moines in May of 2024. She graduated from Lincoln Memorial University with a degree in dental hygiene. It was there that Kara developed her passion for patient care and holistic dentistry. She loves the idea of not only helping people feel better about their smiles but also improving their overall health. Kara is excited to work at Lawson Dentistry to expand her skills and knowledge, ultimately enhancing her ability to help patients. Kara lives in Grimes with her husband, Thomas. Outside of work, she enjoys working out, spending time outdoors, and traveling. In college, Kara participated in a study abroad program in Greece, where she developed a passion for exploring different landscapes and cultures.

Taryn is a wife, stepmom to two daughters, and a dog mom to a boxer named Gus. Family is at the center of everything she does, and she loves building a life filled with faith, adventure, and meaningful experiences.

When she’s not spending time with family, you’ll often find her staying active through boxing, jiu-jitsu, and anything fitness related. She has a deep appreciation for God’s creations and loves being outside, whether that’s exploring new places, enjoying a beautiful day, or simply making memories with the people she loves most.

She’s also passionate about discovering local coffee shops, wineries, breweries, and anywhere with great live music. She believes life is best lived with a sense of curiosity, connection, and gratitude, embracing every opportunity to grow, serve others, and create lasting memories along the way.

Alisa loves creating a welcoming environment for every person. Beyond the chair, she’s passionate about connecting with people, putting them at ease, and helping them feel confident in their care. When she’s not at work, you can usually find her somewhere outdoors or on another little adventure with her girls.

Originally from Frankfort, Illinois, Taylor moved to Des Moines after graduating from the University of Iowa. She has previous dental assisting experience and is grateful to gain even more hands-on experience at Lawson Dentistry. Passionate about combining her background in human physiology with advanced dental technique, this role has deepened her interest in neuromuscular dentistry, particularly in treating TMJ patients and individuals with sleep apnea. Taylor is excited to start dental school at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry in the Fall of 2025!

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, baking, and watching sports(she is a huge White Sox, Packers, and Iowa fan). She also loves to travel, with her favorite experience being hiking Machu Picchu in Peru.

I’m Kayleigh, and I became a RDA in 2022.  I enjoy helping and educating patients the best that I can! I live in Urbandale with my husband and dog, Stella. I enjoy working out, making new recipes, shopping, and traveling.

Helen is entering her junior year at the University of Missouri, where she’s majoring in Health Sciences on a pre-dental track with minors in Biology and Psychology. Outside of school, she stays busy playing club soccer and serving on the executive board of Global Medical Training, an organization that provides free medical and dental care to underserved communities in other counties. In her free time, she enjoys staying active and spending time with friends and family.

Helen is so excited to be working at Lawson Dentistry this summer to learn more and continue working toward a future career in dentistry!