Meet the Team
My Nguyen
patient care coordinator
Peggy Wren
treatment coordinator
I was born and raised in Rhode Island, but I moved to sunny San Diego in 1994, and have been dedicated to the dental field for over 30 years.
Customer service is my top priority. I take great pride in building lasting relationships with our patients. With a warm smile, a bubbly personality, and a positive attitude, I strive to make every visit a welcoming and comfortable experience.
As a proud cancer warrior now in remission, my health journey has led me to work part-time. You’ll often find me in the office during the mornings or working behind the scenes when the office is closed.
Outside of work, I cherish time with my family, caring for my aging mother who lives with me, and spending quality moments with my wonderful son and two beloved Shih Tzu puppies.
I truly value the relationships I build, both in and out of the office, and I look forward to welcoming you with a friendly smile!
Maria Hannawacker
insurance coordinator
With over two decades of experience in the dental industry, I bring extensive knowledge and expertise to my role at The Hills Family Dentistry in San Elijo Hills. I have been a part of this dedicated team for 12 years, where I've formed lasting friendships and contributed significantly. Now based in North Carolina, I serve as the Insurance Specialist, overseeing dental coverage verification, accounts receivables, and customer relations. Despite working remotely, I ensure all our patients' insurance needs are addressed meticulously and with compassion.
Outside the office, I cherish the time spent with my granddaughter and maintain an active lifestyle. I'm passionate about outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and tennis, and I never miss an opportunity to attend live music events. Indoors, I take pleasure in cooking, watching movies, engaging in board games, and bowling.
My friendly and approachable demeanor has made me a valuable member of our team, and I take pride in assisting our patients to navigate their insurance needs effectively and confidently.
Carlo Victa
DENTAL assistant
I have been in the dental field since 2000, but my journey began even earlier when I graduated from Dental Tech School in 1996—the same year I moved to San Diego from Brawley. My background in dental technology has given me the knowledge and skills to help create the best fabricated teeth for our patients.
I have been proud to be part of The Hills Family Dentistry team since 2012. Outside of work, I enjoy riding my bike and spending time outdoors. Cycling is a true passion of mine, and I’m excited to be launching my own cycling apparel company—stay tuned for product listings and website details coming soon!
Stephanie Ortiz
DENTAL assistant
I was born and raised in the tranquil hidden valley of Escondido, where my fascination with dentistry first took root. As a child, I frequently visited our local dental office, an experience that ignited my passion for oral health and steered me towards a career in dentistry. I pursued my education at Palomar College, enrolling in the Registered Dental Assisting program. This program offered me extensive hands-on experience through internships in pediatric dentistry, oral surgery, and general dentistry. Upon graduating, I earned my Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license.
The fulfillment I derive from helping patients achieve confidence through healthy, beautiful smiles continues to inspire my dedication to the field. I am thankful for the opportunity to contribute to this remarkable team.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I cherish spending quality time with family and friends. I am committed to volunteerism within my community, finding joy in life's simple pleasures—whether it's watching a sunset, savoring a delicious meal, listening to music, or playing the piano.
Mea Norton
REGISTERED DENTAL hygienist
Born and raised under the sunny skies of San Diego, I thrive in the great outdoors and cherish my adventures in travel. At home, I'm the proud parent of two tuxedo cats, Pearl and Sonic, and revel in my role as an adoring aunt to my niece and nephew.
My journey in dentistry spans 12 years, starting humbly as a sterilization tech and blossoming into a passion for dental hygiene and patient care during my tenure as a dental assistant in a periodontal office. Witnessing the profound impact of oral health on overall well-being fueled my dedication. In 2019, I earned my degree in dental hygiene.
Recently confronted with a diagnosis of SLE, systemic lupus erythematosus and other autoimmune conditions, I bring a unique empathy and understanding to supporting patients facing similar health challenges.
Meena Halverson
registered dental hygienist
I am originally from New Mexico and bring over 14 years of dedicated experience as a registered dental hygienist to my practice. Having graduated from the University of New Mexico, I have developed a profound passion for dentistry, particularly in the field of periodontics.
Outside of my professional life, I cherish time with my two young boys and our beloved dog, Kirby. I am an avid reader, mostly of fiction, and I have a great love for travel. One of my most cherished memories is my wedding in the breathtaking German Alps.
I place a high value on trust and respect in all aspects of dental care, ensuring that each of my patients feels comfortable, confident, and well cared for. To me, dentistry is more than just a profession—it's an opportunity to build enduring, compassionate relationships with my patients.
Rachel Blackwell
registered dental hygienist
Mira Khodor
Registered Dental Hygienist
My passion for dentistry began early in my academic journey. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience from the University of California, Riverside, before continuing my education at the University of the Pacific, where I obtained my degree in Dental Hygiene.
With over a decade of experience in holistic dentistry, I strive to integrate holistic principles with traditional dental care, providing my patients with a comprehensive approach to achieving optimal oral health. I take pride in delivering personalized care that supports both dental wellness and overall well-being.
As a proud resident of San Elijo, I live with my husband and two children. I am excited to serve and support my local community with expertise, compassion, and a commitment to excellence in dental care.
Gia Scacco
Registered Dental Hygienist
With over 30 years of experience in dental hygiene, I am committed to providing patients with gentle, thorough, and preventive care. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, I bring a strong foundation of Midwestern values—integrity, compassion, and a strong work ethic—to every patient interaction.
After the birth of our two children, my family and I relocated to Southern California and made San Marcos our home. I take pride in building trust with my patients and believe that long-term relationships are essential to delivering effective oral health care.
Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family and our dog, Teddy. Whether exploring local trails or simply enjoying the community, San Marcos continues to be a wonderful place to live and work. I look forward to helping each patient achieve and maintain a healthy smile.
