Schedule of Speakers
TNDHA is proud to present this year’s esteemed speakers, who will share their invaluable insights and extensive expertise with our audience. Each speaker is not only highly regarded in their respective professions but also brings a tremendous wealth of information and experience to the podium, enriching the overall learning experience for all attendees. We are excited to have such distinguished individuals join us and are confident that their contributions will make a significant impact.
Katrina M. Sanders
RDH, BSDH, M.Ed, RF
Katrina Sanders is a clinical dental hygienist, author, award-winning educator, consultant, podcaster, international speaker, sommelier, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and dog lover. Her mission is to elevate the profession by creating an undeniable movement that educates, encourages, and empowers the dental profession to rise in its power. Known as the “Dental WINEgenist™,” she pairs her unwavering desire for excellence in the dental industry with her knowledge and passion for wine. She has charmed audiences around the world with her lectures on provocative topics that leave the participants with a call to action and a renewed sense of pride for their industry. She is enthusiastic about creating an environment where the course participants are supported, energized, and connected. Her message of empowerment and her zest for dental hygiene are infused throughout her content as she brings her own unique blend of knowledge, inspiration, charisma, and humor in her approach to continuing dental education.
Krystal Barnes
Krystal M. Barnes, OTR/L, C/NDT is currently working as the Lead Occupational Therapist at West TN Rehabilitation Hospital in Jackson, TN. She serves as the Fall Champion and on the Stroke Committee, Stroke Support Group Committee, and the Community Education Committee. Krystal has over 20 years of clinical experience with adults in various settings such as skilled nursing facilities, outpatient, home health, and now inpatient rehabilitation. Even as she has experience with treating many various diagnoses, inpatient rehab is where she found her love and purpose for neurological disorder patients, especially CVA/ Stroke patients. She is a proud 2003 Graduate of Tennessee State University with Bachelors of Science in Occupational Therapy. She serves on the Occupational Therapy Advisory Board for Tennessee State University. She is certified in Neuro-developmental Treatment. She takes pride in taking responsibility for her personal growth by being a Member of the Neuro- Developmental Treatment Association and a Member of Tennessee Occupational Therapy Association, where she serves on the TNOTA Conference Committee. She is also a presenter for TNOTA as she provides continue education courses for other OT professionals. She has educated high school students in Jackson, TN, Madison County area on the benefits of the OT profession. Krystal loves to give back to her community by providing basic fall & stroke prevention strategies, exercises, and tips to maintain longevity and independence.
AMY RUTHERFORD,
LPC-MHSP, AS
Mrs. Rutherford currently serves as the Director of College Autism Spectrum. With more than two decades of experience in higher education, she co-founded and led a college autism support program for 17 years. Amy is the co-author of The BASICS College Curriculum, a four-book series designed to guide autistic students through the transition into and out of college life. In 2025, she published Neurodiversity & College: A Parent’s Guide for Autistic Students, offering practical insights and strategies to help families navigate the college experience.
She is also the co-founder of The Navigate-U Network and consults with universities and businesses nationwide, specializing in transitional supports, neuro-inclusive programming, and neurodiversity hiring initiatives. Her work includes leading program evaluations and presenting nationally and internationally on neurodiversity, inclusion, and student success.
In addition to her consulting and leadership roles, Amy is a Licensed Professional Counselor and maintains a private practice in Tennessee. Drawing from both her professional expertise and lived experience as a neurodivergent individual, she is passionate about fostering inclusive environments, advancing equitable opportunities, and empowering others to thrive.