Meet The Team
John R. Liu, DDS
Dr. Liu was born in Taipei, Taiwan, but spent most of his years growing up in Southern California. He graduated from high school in 1976 from Loma Linda Academy. He attended Loma Linda University College of Arts and Sciences in La Sierra, CA and graduated in 1982 with a BS degree in Biology. In 1986, he graduated from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Upon graduating from dental school, he was accepted into the pediatric dental residency program at Children’s Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio.
After completing his residency in the summer of 1988, he returned to Loma Linda and joined the faculty as an assistant professor in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry until 1992. He was also appointed as an assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics with the Loma Linda University School of Medicine because of his involvement with the Craniofacial Team. From 1988-1992, Dr. Liu also maintained a part time private practice with Dr. Wilfred Nation at the Loma Linda Children’s Dental Group.
In 1992, Dr. Liu accepted the position as Dental Chief for the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic in Seattle. Because of the clinic’s affiliation with Children’s Hospital and the resulting rotation of residents through the clinic, Dr. Liu was appointed to the faculty at the University of Washington School of Dentistry in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry. Following successful relocation and expansion of the OBCC dental clinic in 1994, Dr. Liu entered private practice in Issaquah. Since that time, the practice has grown from a small house on Front Street with three dental chairs, to our current location with 10 dental chairs, a surgery suite, and a recovery area.
Dr. Liu is active outside the practice in many professional and non-profit organizations. He has served on the boards of the Seattle Children’s Museum, the Washington Dental Service Foundation and the Washington State Oral Health Coalition. He has also served as the Secretary/Treasurer of the Seattle King County Dental Society. In May 2007, he assumed the role of Secretary/Treasurer and in May of 2009 assumed his newest responsibility as President Elect of The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. He has received several honors and awards from his peers having been inducted into the American College of Dentists in 1999 and the Pierre Fauchard Academy in 2007.
Additionally, he has been selected as one of the “Top Dentists" by Seattle Magazine in 2002, 2006 and 2009.
Dr. Liu and his wife, Kari, reside in Sammamish with their two young daughters, Clara and Tara. When not playing dress up, or pretending to be ballerinas, the girls are busy in school, gymnastics, swimming, art classes and skiing with mom and dad.
SallySue M. Lombardi, DDS, MSD
Dr. Lombardi was born and raised in the Yakima Valley. She joined Dr. Liu in the summer of 1996. Dr. Lombardi is a 1992 graduate of the University of Washington, School of Dentistry and completed a general practice residency through the University of Washington Medical Center in 1993. While on rotation through the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic and Children’s Hospital Department of Dental Medicine during her general practice residency training, Dr. Lombardi discovered her love of working with children. Shortly after completing the rotation, she decided to pursue pediatric dentistry as her specialty. She completed her pediatric dental residency program at a joint program offered by the University of Washington and Seattle Children’s Hospital where she obtained both her certificate in Pediatric Dentistry as well as a Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD). Dr. Lombardi completed her board certification and became a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry in 2002.
Dr. Lombardi is active in many professional organizations: the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Washington State Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Washington State Dental Association, Seattle King County Dental Society, and the Northwest Pediatric Dental Study Club. Over the years, she has held many offices in these various organizations and recently served as Treasurer for the Washington State Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s Foundation. She faithfully attends continuing education conferences throughout the year, believing that practicing dentistry is a lifelong learning process and hopes to apply what she learns to provide the highest standard of care to the children she cares for.
Additionally, she has been selected as one of the “Top Dentists” by Seattle Magazine in 2006 & 2009.
Not one to lie idle, Dr. Lombardi has many interests outside of dentistry as well. When she can find the time, she loves to work in her yard and on her house. She has recently taken up the hobbies of knitting and skiing.
Dr. Lombardi is married and has two beautiful, busy boys. She and her family live in the Snoqualmie Valley.
Donna J. Quinby, DMD, MSD
In November of 1999, Dr. Donna, as she is known by many of her patients, joined Drs. Liu and Lombardi to continue the tradition of providing the best to the children of Issaquah and the surrounding area.
Dr. Donna was born and raised in New Jersey and is the oldest of two children. It was her first visit to her pediatric dentist at the age of 3 that was instrumental in her decision to become a dentist. She announced to her mother when returning to the reception area, “this is what I want to do when I grow up.”
Moving forward on a career path formulated by a 3 year old, Dr. Donna completed her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, NJ and then went onto the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey – New Jersey Dental School where she received her Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD). One of her awards received in dental school was from the Academy of Dentistry for the Handicapped – for high achievement in the dental care for the handicapped. Her first experiences providing dental care to those with special needs as a student peeked her interest in pursing a career in pediatric dentistry.
Following completion of dental school, Dr. Donna was Seattle-bound for the residency program in hospital dentistry at the University of Washington Medical Center. During the residency program, she had the opportunity to work with healthy children and those with special health care needs. It was through these experiences that Dr. Donna decided that she would like to continue her studies to become a pediatric dentist.
Dr. Donna received her Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry and Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) in 1998 from the University of Washington and was invited to join Drs. Liu and Lombardi in 1999. Before joining Eastside Pediatric Dental Group, she was on staff at the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic in Seattle and worked in several public health clinics. Dr. Donna was with the Department of Dental Medicine at Seattle Children’s from 1998 to 2008. She continues to be on medical staff at Seattle Children’s as well as Swedish Medical Center.
In October 2006, Dr. Donna successfully completed her board certification and is now a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Donna is a member of the Regional Hemophilia Team which meets monthly to discuss the best treatment approaches for patients with hemophilia. She holds professional memberships with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Washington State Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Washington State Dental Association, Seattle King County Dental Society, and the Northwest Pediatric Dental Study Club. Dr. Donna is a member of EcoDentistry Association which is an organization that focuses on making dental practices eco-friendlly.
When not in the office, Dr. Donna can be found hiking, kayaking, white water rafting, camping, cycling, walking her dogs, doing yoga, participating in the Breast Cancer 3 Day Walk and other volunteer events in her community.
Richard F. Stafford, DDS
Dr. Stafford was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. He and Dr. Liu have known and worked with each other since 1988 when Dr. Liu was on the faculty at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry as Dr. Stafford was undergoing his dental anesthesia residency training.
Dr. Stafford graduated from the University of California at Los Angeles School of Dentistry and also completed a general practice residency program at the Brigham School Hospital and Harvard School of Dental Medicine in Boston, MA. Initially, he had chosen to specialize in dental implants but while doing his anesthesia rotation, was convinced to switch from the dental implant program into the dental anesthesia program.
Dr. Stafford has published articles and has lectured extensively in pediatric dental anesthesia. He is board certified in Dental Anesthesiology as well as certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support. He also serves in the position of assistant professor of Dental Anesthesiology at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry and the University of Southern California. He limits his practice to pediatric dental anesthesia.
When Dr. Liu entered into private practice full time and decided to make intravenous sedation available to his patients, he invited Dr. Stafford to provide these anesthesia services. Dr. Stafford was a perfect choice because his skill level and dedication to providing high quality care to his patients matches the philosophy of all the doctors at Eastside Pediatric Dental Group.
April
Hi! I am April, the Financial Coordinator at Eastside Pediatric Dental Group. I came to this office as a Dental Assistant in 2000 after learning the ropes at a Family/Cosmetic dental practice. I have always loved working with kids and thought this would be a great fit for me. After a few years of assisting, I gradually worked into a front office position, and in May 2006, became the Financial and Sedation Coordinator for the office.
My husband and I were married in 2004 and we welcomed out first child, a little girl named Karys, in August 2006 and our son Sinjon in the fall of 2008. We love to travel, spend time with family and friends, and, when we can fit it in, work on updating our home in Renton. I am an avid baseball fan and am working on attending games in every major league park in the United States. So far, I have been to ten!
Ava
Hello my name is Ava and I work in the billing department and the front office at Eastside Pediatric Dental Group. I received my Bachelor’s degree in 2005 from Bastyr University in exercise science and wellness. After graduating from Bastyr, I worked for a local health club as a personal trainer. I have lived on the eastside since 2003 and truly enjoy all the Northwest has to offer. Some of my hobbies include spending time with my wonderful husband, exercising, biking with my dog and participate in local running events. I enjoy assisting our patients and parents by providing the highest quality customer service.
Brandi
Hi! My name is Brandi and I have been a dental assistant since 2002. I attended YVCC for Dental Assisting School in 2001-2002, and after finishing school, I knew I wanted to work in a pediatric office because I love working with children. I have been at Eastside Pediatric Dental Group since 2004, and prior to working here, I worked at a pediatric dental office in the Tri-Cities for 2 and half years.
I have a wonderful husband, daughter, and son who keep me very busy. We live in North Bend and spend most of our days at the lake and just enjoying the outdoors. I enjoy cooking, jet skiing, and camping, but most of all I enjoy spending time with my family!
Christina
Hi, I’m Christina! I have been a dental assistant since 1997. I got my start in dentistry when a general dentist took me under his wing and trained me to be an assistant. I have worked at a few other offices and have found that working with Drs. Liu, Lombardi and Quinby is where I belong. I have enjoyed learning, growing and working with them since 2001. I love working with children because they make my heart smile. I love learning and gaining new skills or building upon talents. I have expanded my skills using my artistic talents to make dental appliances for our patients.In 2003, I graduated from BCC with my Associate in Applied Sciences (AAS) degree. Periodically, I take classes to further my skills, education, or just for fun (like cake decorating). Someday, I would like to learn more about photography.
My husband and I bought our first home in 2002. We have two crazy black cats, Jasper and Mimi. We also have an adorable chocolate lab – Miss Gracie the Princess, but we call her Gracie for short. My hobbies are cake decorating, throwing the Frisbee for our dog, cooking for Pampered Chef shows, working in my flower garden and dabbling in scenic photography. Some of my favorite things are tulips, dahlias, beautiful sunsets/sunrises and the Food Network.
Diane
My name is Diane. I have been working in the field of Pediatric Dentistry since 2004 as a Dental Assistant. My favorite part of working with the kids is their personalities and smiling faces. Each child is so unique and it is a great experience to work with each and every one of them.
I have recently been accepted in the Dental Hygiene Program at Lake Washington Technical College. I will be returning to Eastside Pediatric Dental Group during school breaks. In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my boyfriend hiking and biking.
Heather
Hi! My name is Heather. I graduated with my Associate Science Degree from Lake Washington Technical College and am a Certified Dental Assistant. I have worked here at Eastside Pediatric Dental Group since 1997. My duties include educating children on the importance of good oral health, making space maintainers and mouth guards.I own a home in Bellevue and live with my cats (Simon and Missy) and my dog (Peso). My hobbies include recreational sports such as flag football, rock climbing, hiking, and biking. I also enjoy participating in activities associated with a cause such as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Team in Training Marathon and the Seattle Breast Cancer 3-day Walk in 2007.
Jessica
My name is Jessica. I have been working in pediatric dentistry since 2000 as a dental assistant. I joined Eastside Pediatric Dental Group in 2007.I have a wonderful daughter who keeps me very busy. In the fall of 2008 I purchased my home in Auburn and am in the process of remodeling it. In my time away from work, I enjoy scrapbooking, decorating my home, going to the ocean and spending quiet time with my daughter.
Lachmi
Hi! My name is Lachmi. I am Business Coordinator here at EPDG, and have been in the medical and dental field since 2003. I received my degree in Dental Assisting from Lake Washington Technical College in 2005, but have chosen to work in the front office simply because customer relations are my passion. I truly enjoy working at EPDG because I know that our patients are receiving the best dental care from our doctors and staff. I live in Issaquah with my husband and two little yorkies. In our spare time, we enjoy going to sporting events, bowling, eating out, going to the movies, spending time with friends and family, and trying new things.
Karen
Hi! My name is Karen and I am the Director of Finance at Eastside Pediatric Dental Group. I have worked for this office since 1997 and love it. I am married and have two boys who keep me very busy. When I'm not working, I am spending time with my family either at one of the boys' sporting events or musical events (they both sing, play instruments and act!).
Not only do I work for EPDG, but my boys have been patients here since 1995. Being an employee, I know the care that the doctors and staff take to stay up to date on the latest information and procedures. I feel confident that they have both received the best dental care around.
Kate
My name is Kate and I am the Director of Operations at Eastside Pediatric Dental Group. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from Washington State University in the spring of 2003 and have been working in public relations and marketing ever since. I joined EPDG in the summer of 2008 and have truly enjoyed the wonderful specialty of pediatric dentistry.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my husband and family, volunteering with my sorority, listening to music, cooking, skiing and reading.
Kim
Hi and welcome to Eastside Pediatric Dental Group. My name is Kim and I am one of the dental assistants here at EPDG. I joined the office in 2009. As well as earning my dental assistant certificate, I have also earned my Associate in Arts degree. I am married and we have 2 beautiful daughters. I have lived in the Kent/Covington area for most of my life and in my spare time I love to be at home with my family and our three dogs (KB, Jersey, and Ellie). I enjoy sports such as soccer, basketball and rugby. I also love walking, music, and cooking. I am so excited to be a part of this amazing team. I have always loved working with children and am so happy that I can enrich the lives of so many kids on a daily basis. Working in a child-filled atmosphere is something I find very uplifting. I look forward to meeting you and your children very soon.
Krista
Hi, my name is Krista. I graduated with my dental assisting certificate from ETON Technical College. I have been working with Eastside Pediatric Dental Group since 1999, and am a Lead Dental Assistant. I have always known that pediatrics was my calling. I am originally from Alaska, but migrated south and now reside in Covington. I have been married to my wonderful husband since 2001. Together, with our two crazy dogs, we enjoy camping, riding quads, and cruising on our motorcycle.
Kristen
Hi, my name is Kristen. I’ve worked with Drs. Liu, Lombardi and Quinby since 1999 as a Dental Assistant. Prior to joining Eastside Pediatric Dental Group, I completed a year long dental assisting course at Lake Washington Technical College.I live in Bellevue with my husband and two little boys. After becoming a mother, I decided to stay home three days a week to raise my children which has been very rewarding and at times challenging. My personal hobbies are going to the movies with my husband, going on walks and bike rides, scrapbooking, cross stitching and sewing.
Kristin
Hi my name is Kristin. I joined Eastside Pediatric Dental Group in 2008, as a Dental Assistant. Prior to working here, I worked as an Oral Surgery Assistant and a waitress. Deep down, I always knew working with children was for me. I, truly, love every minute I get to spend with children and feel so fortunate to be a part of this team.
In my time away from work, I love relaxing, watching movies and scrapbooking. Most of all I enjoy spending time with my boyfriend, our animals, friends and family.
Megan
Hi my name is Megan and I joined the office in the fall of 2008 after I graduated from Brigham Young University with my Bachelor’s degree in Family Science. I have worked in the medical industry since 2004. I truly enjoy the exciting and challenging specialty of pediatric dentistry. I love being at the front desk associating with all the patients as they walk through the door. I am excited to be here and anticipate the opportunity to get to know all our young patients!
I have been married for a year and a half and love the married life. We recently moved up to the Seattle area from Utah. I am enjoying the rain and can’t wait for the sun. I like to ride my bike, ski, wake board, watch movies and shop!
Pam
Hi, my name is Pam. I am a Registered Dental Hygienist with a Bachelor of Science degree from Oregon Health Sciences University. I am married and my husband is a collegiate football coach. We have two grown sons. My oldest son received his Doctorate in Engineering from UCLA and my youngest son is a catcher with the San Diego Padres.
I had the pleasure of working for Eastside Pediatric Dental Group five years before we moved out of state. When the opportunity arose to come back part time, I jumped at the chance. It is a privilege to work in such a wonderful office where they make each child feel special.
Richelle
Hello, my name is Richelle. I joined Eastside Pediatric Dental Group in 2002 as a dental assistant. Since then, I have expanded my responsibilities in the office to include those at the front desk. One of the things I enjoy most about my job is working with children. I was recently accepted to Dental Hygiene School and will be starting in the fall of 2009.
I live in the Auburn area with my husband, our new baby girl, Maya, and our little wiener dog, Jethro. We make frequent trips over the mountains on the weekends to see family and for recreation. I love the outdoors…camping, hiking, riding, and anything in the sun!
Shannon
Hi I’m Shannon. I am a Lead Dental Assistant here at Eastside Pediatric Dental Group. I have been a part of this practice since 2000. I moved from Southern California where I completed my Dental Assisting license. I love working in a children’s dental office because I get to be a part of the memories made with a child’s first visit to the dentist.I enjoy spending time decorating and painting my home. When the weather is nice I enjoy taking advantage of the sunny day by being outdoors.
Stephanie
Hello! My name is Stephanie and I am a Dental Assistant. I recently graduated from WSU with a BA in Humanities. I am a huge Coug fan, and I love to be outdoors doing anything from surfing to snowboarding. Before joining this office, I was an assistant at a family dentist in Baton Rouge, LA while attending LSU on exchange for the Fall 2006 semester. While I attended WSU, I was a tooth tutor for Whitman County, which allowed me to go to schools and daycares in the area and talk with children about the importance of good oral health. I was accepted into the Dental Hygiene Program at Columbia Basin College in the Tri Cities and plan to return to the office during school breaks and, possibly, after graduation.
I love working with children because the atmosphere is fun and energetic, and I can always count on laughing and learning with each patient I see.
Tanya
Hi! My name is Tanya. I starting working in the dental field in 2001, and I have been with Eastside Pediatric Dental Group since April of 2008. I was born in New York, lived in South Carolina for 11 years, and have been in the Issaquah area since my senior year in high school. My family also lived in France for several months when I was in fourth grade. My husband and I live in Issaquah with our Shorkie Roxie. I enjoy traveling, camping, running, and swimming. My favorite vacation spot is anywhere with a beach!