By Ashley Benkarski
NASHVILLE, TN— Dr. Ruth Ross Edmonds, DDS, MDS, is a woman of many talents.
She maintains a busy, yet structured, life; in addition to her work she is a beekeeper, creates fused glass pieces, travels, cooks, plans events, attends church and yet still manages to stay fit.
A philanthropist and “a woman of distinction and influence paving the way for others in the community,” the Gary, Indiana native began her educational journey at Vanderbilt University and Meharry Medical College, School of Dentistry where she eventually served as an assistant professor.
She completed her graduate training in Orthodontics at the University of Tennessee in Memphis.
During her time at Meharry Dr. Ruth earned the Alpha Omega Award for highest GPA, her website states.
She’s been operating her orthodontic practice, Braces by Dr. Ruth, in Nashville for more than two decades.
Dr. Ruth was also the first African American woman to graduate from University of Tennessee in Memphis Orthodontics and currently serves on Interfaith Dental’s Board and is their first African American Event Co-chair, along with her husband, Kevon.
Relatedly, Dr. Ruth and Kevon will host Soul, Country & Bourbon, a bourbon tasting and food pairing experience with a tour taking place at the National Museum of African American Music taking place Thursday, April 7 from 6-9 p.m.
Always one to note the importance of dental health, she recognizes that, for many, regularly-scheduled dental cleanings are too costly.
That’s where organizations like Interfaith Dental come in, she said, adding that similar services are offered by organizations such as Meharry and Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Center. These services can help people catch dental health issues before they become serious concerns.
Her philanthropy underscores her passion for collaborating with other partners to advocate for dental accessibility and make a significant difference in the community.
“Always pay it forward,” she said of her philosophy.
A self-described lifelong learner, Dr. Ruth said she believes in being ready to adapt to anything. “Nothing stays the same,” she remarked.
Dr. Ruth and Kevon have a 10-year-old daughter, Karmella Rose. Kevon is the lead vocalist of R&B group After 7 and will host the musical entertainment portion of the event, which will bring together emerging artists from the soul and country genres.
Event sponsorships and tickets are still available by visiting interfaithdental.com/SCB.
