Gabby Leilo spent the first eight years of her life in Beirut, Lebanon. Her family immigrated to a small town in South Carolina in 1990. “Acclimating to a new culture meant embracing the unknown, which shaped me into someone more adaptable and open minded. It’s a journey I’m proud of,” she said.
Gabby Leilo with her husband Saed Aweida and their son Noah. |
She worked as a sales associate and pharmacy technician in South Carolina before deciding she was ready for something new. Leilo and her husband moved to Colorado, where she became a dental assistant—launching her career in the field.
Leilo first came to the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine (CU SDM) while completing an externship for her dental assistant certification. She was hired as a full-time dental assistant in the General Practice Residency Clinic, then after taking some time off for her son Noah, came back as an administrative assistant at the front desk. In 2022, Leilo became a coordinator—one of her proudest accomplishments, alongside earning her dental assistant certification and being a mom.
Leilo said, “The love and support of my family, along with my faith, shapes every aspect of my life. They are the heart and soul of who I am, and they bring me a ton of meaning and happiness.”
Her family loves traveling together, paddle boarding, watching basketball and hiking when the weather is warmer. She said, “There is so much beauty that we still would like to see in beautiful Colorado.”
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As a clinic coordinator and program assistant, she works with 30-40 dental students, providing guidance and encouragement throughout their dental school journey. Coordinators help students manage their patient appointments and ensure they are meeting the clinical requirements for graduation.
“Dental school is hard and can be stressful for our students,” said Leilo. “Guiding students on their paths towards becoming dentists is a privilege that brings me joy and fulfillment in my job. It’s a truly rewarding position because of them.”
From a young age, Leilo has been open to new experiences and learned to welcome them. “The best advice I ever received was to embrace change, because it often leads to growth and opportunities you might have never imagined.”