Introducing our exciting new blog series, “We Are PCSO – Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion!”
At PCSO, we believe in the power of engagement, diversity, and inclusion, and we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on the remarkable individuals who are making a positive impact within our EDI committee.
Over the next few months, we will be featuring members of the committee, sharing their journey, contributions, and commitment to fostering an inclusive environment in the orthodontic community. This campaign aims to highlight the diverse voices that make PCSO a thriving and welcoming space for all.
Meet Dr. Nancy Gum, the chairperson of the Engagement, Diversity and Inclusion task force and an orthodontist in private practice in San Jose, California. Dr. Gum is a second-generation orthodontist. Her educational journey took her from Cal Poly SLO for undergrad to the University of the Pacific Art Dugoni School of Dentistry and orthodontic residency, and finally board certification. Upon completing her studies, she joined her father’s practice, practicing with him for 15 years until his retirement.
According to Dr. Gum, “Our aim with the PCSO EDI task is not only to illuminate the diverse tapestry within the orthodontic community but also to ensure every thread — every individual — feels valued, represented, and heard. It’s about building bridges, fostering understanding, and promoting a profession that truly reflects the diverse world we serve. I feel blessed to be a part of EDI task force. Our goal is to communicate with PCSO members and provide relevant information to help them navigate the professional world we live in today.”
Born into a family that inherently understood the nuances of individuality and the importance of acceptance, Nancy’s foundation was rooted in understanding different facets of life. Growing up with a lesbian mother at a time when LGBTQ+ acceptance was not as widespread as it is today, she was introduced to the realities of prejudice and the significance of embracing everyone’s unique journey. She learned to follow your own path, dont worry what anyone else thinks or says and be kind to yourself as well as others. It was her mother who instilled in her a passion for ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background or identity, had a place at the table. Dr. Gum has emerged as a staunch ally for the LGBTQ community, she believes that the orthodontic community should spearhead efforts in treating all individuals—be they doctors, patients, team members, or community members—with unerring understanding and compassion.
Dr Gum’s father introduced her to the world of aligned teeth and radiant smiles. From him, she learned to suit up and show up, to stand up for what is important to herself, her family and her profession, to do the right thing, even when no one is watching, to clean her desk off before leaving work each day, to treat the patients with understanding and kindness, that if we do this everything else in private practice will fall into place, to be passionate about both work and hobbies.
Outside of her professional sphere, Dr. Gum is passionate about nature, enjoying hiking, camping, and gardening. Her dedication to animal welfare is evident in her bond with her rescue ponies, Popsicle and Archie, whom she involves in pet-assisted therapy. Dr. Gum cherishes her family life with her husband and four adult children.