Topeka's Top 20 Under 40: Laura Vaughn
Laura Vaughn
Age 37
Pediatric Dentist/Owner
Pediatric Smiles/Vaughn Pediatric Dentistry
Laura often visits area schools to promote dental education and has also participated in mission outreach programs including: Colorado and Kansas Mission of Mercy, Chicago Dental Van and Colgate Oral Health Mobile. Laura is a Topeka Symphony League board member and a member of the Junior League of Topeka’s Leadership Council.
“Topeka is great—a wonderful place to live and work, and moving here has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
What is the most important characteristic that a leader can possess?Be willing to show up, roll up your sleeves, and do the work. The way I see it, if I tell someone to do something for me, and I wouldn’t be willing to show them how to do it or even do it myself, then I shouldn’t have a high expectation of their success.
What do you do to ensure your growth and development as a leader?“In the event of an emergency, please put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.” I try to lead by example, and that means putting MY best foot forward every day. If I sleep, exercise and show up with a smile, I hope that my positivity is infectious to my team. When the days and weeks get especially stressful, I reach for an “oxygen mask,” take a deep breath and continue moving forward.
What do you hope your legacy will be?To get everyone to floss. (The string, not the dance.) It takes less than one minute a day, it costs less than $1 a month and it makes you healthier. I did not have great oral hygiene as a kid, and I paid the price; I’ve had a lot of dental work done. Creating healthy habits often requires time, commitment and consistency, and they won’t stick until their value is seen.
Back to full list of 20 Under 40 Honorees
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