Help us celebrate Cristal Feria for receiving her Firestarter Award!

If you’ve visited our dental clinic in Connell, chances are you’ve met Cristal—and if you have, you know she’s an absolute rockstar! She keeps the schedule full, greets every patient with a warm smile, and goes above and beyond to support her team.

Cristal never says no to a challenge, always makes time for patients, and embodies CBHA’s WE CARE standards and AIDET principles. Her dedication, dependability, and passion for learning make her an invaluable part of our team. We’re lucky to have her!

Congratulations Cristal!

Learn more about her:

When did you start at CBHA?

I began working with CBHA in August of 2022.

What is your job title and day-to-day responsibilities?

I am a Patient Service Representative. My day-to-day responsibilities can vary; some of those duties consist of verifying patient information and insurance, taking payments, answering phone calls, but most importantly, providing patient care.

What is your favorite thing about working at CBHA?

One of my favorite things about working with CBHA is how involved they are with the community. They are constantly finding ways to give back. CBHA offers outreach events that provide dental or medical services to our local students or communities. We provide classes on important health topics through our health education department ensuring our patients stay informed and involved.

How has CBHA helped you grow in your career?

Not only has CBHA helped me grow professionally but also personally by fostering a supportive learning environment. They have provided me with valuable opportunities to enhance my communication and professionalism through daily interactions with a diverse range of patients. Additionally, working here has allowed me to develop my leadership abilities, enabling me to contribute more strategically to my team’s ideas and initiatives.

What has been your favorite project at work so far?

My favorite project so far was participating in Mesa’s Winter Bazaar this past winter. It was such a fun experience! We brought a variety of craft supplies and had the opportunity to help attendees create their own unique ornaments. It was a great way to engage with the community and spread some holiday cheer.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

If I could have any superpower, I would choose the ability to speak and understand all languages. This would allow me to communicate with anyone, anywhere, and try to provide help in any situation, bridging cultural gaps and fostering connection on a deeper level.

How do you turn a bad day into a good one?

I try to turn a bad day into a good one by always trying to focus on the positive things. I also grab a Red Bull to give me that extra boost of energy to power through and keep my spirits up.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid?

When I was younger I always dreamed of being a fashion designer. I would spend time sketching dresses and clothing, imagining the designs I would one day bring to life.

Where is your favorite place to travel?

I haven’t traveled much but I would love to visit Hawaii someday.

If you could be any Disney Character which one would you be?

I’d say either Mirabel or Dory. Like Mirabel, I’m always looking for solutions and doing my best to help those around me. But, like Dory, I tend to forget things pretty easily.

Anyone you would like to thank or final words?

I would like to thank Tracie Griffin, Dental Operations Supervisor for nominating me for Firestarter. I am grateful for the guidance and support and appreciate you always allowing me to be a part of your team. I also want to express my gratitude to my Connell Team, for being patient and supportive through our productive days and for their collaborative efforts to accomplish our mission. Most and foremost I would like to thank my supervisor, Noel Orozco, Connell Clinic Manager, for seeing and believing in every single person he comes across and for continuously pushing me to be the best version of myself.