Julie Muhle used her superpowers of positivity to shape the future of TMCC Dental Assisting students. A sign in her office stated, “Everything is Figureoutable,” and for many of her students, Muhle’s determination carried them through to graduation and a career. “Student success is at the heart of 100% of what we do,” she said.
TMCC faculty and staff join Muhle’s family and students in mourning the loss of this exceptional mother, friend, colleague and instructor. She passed away from cancer on Jan. 14, 2025, at home surrounded by her loving family.
Muhle’s legacy of kindness, dedication, and unwavering belief in her students touched the dental community. In recognition of her countless contributions to the profession, the Northern Nevada Dental Society (NNDS) generously renamed their endowed scholarship to the Julie Muhle Memorial Scholarship in her honor. The interest from this endowment will continue to provide scholarships to TMCC Dental Assisting students, which will forever honor her memory and passion for the profession. In addition, NNDS has renamed Nevada Dental Health Day at the Legislature to the Julie Muhle Oral Health Legislative Day.
Muhle worked as a dental assistant for 20 years prior to teaching part-time in the Dental Assisting Program at TMCC. Three years after she began teaching as a part-time instructor, she became a full-time faculty member and the program coordinator. After receiving two associate degrees from TMCC, she completed a Bachelor's and Master’s Degree in Education.
During an interview in 2021, Muhle shared her memories about receiving her first associate degree as she walked at the commencement ceremony alongside some of the students she taught in the Dental Assisting Program. “I was so proud,” she remembered. “As a student, I felt the instructors, the people in Admissions and Records, Counseling—everyone I encountered at TMCC—was part of my journey. They were all so encouraging. Now as a full-time faculty member, I see that we are behind every student, and we want them to do well. We have a vested interest in them and their future.”
To contribute to Julie Muhle’s scholarship online, please indicate in the designation box that your gift is for the Julie Muhle Memorial Scholarship. Checks can be payable to the TMCC Foundation and mailed to TMCC Foundation, 7000 Dandini Blvd., RDMT 200, Reno, NV 89512.
For more information, contact the TMCC Foundation.