About Us
DDCI was founded to provide a high-quality, hands-on comprehensive training in the dental field that is both affordable and convenient to students from all walks of life.
At DDCI you benefit from a dual teaching environment of classroom lectures and hands-on training in an actual dental office by experienced dental professionals. We offer smaller class sizes to enhance your overall learning experience.
We sincerely seek the very best for each student and do everything necessary to assure that they each master the material needed to be successful in the course as well as in their jobs in the dental field.
Our Mission
At Dolphin Dental Career Institute, our goal is to instill a positive and lasting impact on our students and in our community. We strive to inspire leaders in the dental field to work with a spirit of service and integrity. Everything we do is inspired by our commitment to our students:
- To instill personal responsibilities in oral health care
- To establish the highest standards of professionalism and accountability
- To enhance personal worth, self sufficiency and positive self-esteem
- To provide quality service to the dental profession
Values
- Leadership
- Integrity and Professionalism
- Transforming Lives
- High Academic Standards
- Diverse and Inclusive Environment
- Student Success in Achieving Educational Goals
- Community, Education, and Industry Partnerships
- Communication and Collaboration
- Accountability
- Sustainability
- Transparency
Why Choose Us
We provide our students hands-on training for a successful career in the dental industry. We do what we do because we love people, we thoroughly enjoy getting to know each and every one of our students, and making their learning experience fun and enjoyable.
Our Team
Dr. Ivan O Parra graduated from New York University School of Dentistry in 1996. He obtained his bachelor’s degree and Doctor in Dental Surgery Degree from Universidad Javeriana in Colombia in 1976. Dr. Parra is a well recognized Dentist in his community; he has owed multiple practices throughout his career in Colombia, New York and Florida. Currently, Dr. Parra is the Owner of Dolphin Dental Care in Plantation and Hallandale, Florida and Owner and Director of Education at Dolphin Dental Career Institute in Plantation, Florida. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and Florida Dental Association.
With over 30 years of experience in the field of dentistry, Dr. Parra’s passion for the field of dentistry still remains the thriving force of his life. Being able to build personal relationships with each of his patients is one of the most important and rewarding aspects of being a Dentist. Other than family, his practice and helping his community will always be the main priority in my life.
Andres Parra received his BS degree in Computer Science and Business from St. John’s University, Jamaica, New York in 2000. He completed his MBA degree in Entrepreneurship from Nova University, Davie, Florida in 2007. In addition he has completed several management and leadership courses including an advanced Masters Certificate in Leadership from Cornell University. Andres has been in the Dental Industry for over 15 years, His background in business development and marketing helps him oversee everything from financial and performance to human resources and marketing. He have created the company’s education and development systems, implemented marketing plans, and standardized dental operations to increase efficiency and elevate the level of care at different organization.
In his free time, Andres enjoys spending time with his family, biking, running, traveling, doing outdoor activities, learning about different cultures, and reading.
Ms. Yesenia Almonte has 25 years of front and back office experience including lead Dental Assistant and office management positions throughout her career. She operated and managed several dental practices before she joined Dolphin Dental Care in 2007. Ms. Almonte is the Patient Care Coordinator at Dolphin Dental Care. She is also currently working for Dr. Parra at Dolphin Dental Career Institute as our Student Coordinator Administrator and Lead Instructor. Ms. Almonte is a Certified Dental Assistant CDA in the state of Florida and is currently seeking her AADOM Certification. Yesenia loves to help others and is passionate about her careers, this passion is reflected on the way she teaches her students.
She has two children, Juliana and Julius. In her leisure time she enjoys spending time at the beach, pool, or on an exciting getaway.
With over 35 years of dental experience. Adela Mills brings a wealth of insight and knowledge in her role as a dental instructor. Adela received her degree in dental hygiene from Miami Dade College, her Bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene and dental education from St. Petersburg College, and her Masters Degree in higher education from Florida International University.
Adela enjoys teaching pre-doctoral students as a member of Faculty of Nova Southeastern University, Department Of Periodontics. Adela loves to teach and is passionate about Dentistry, her passion is reflected on the smile of her patients and students.
Adela delights in world travel with her husband Steve, and her two children, Marcus (26) and Krystel, (23).
