Dr. Millie grew up in a small farming community, Gold Hill, North Carolina.  During high school, she enjoyed riding horses and participating in the rodeo circuit.  A graduate of the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, she received her bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene.   During this time, Dr. Millie was introduced to Alaska and spent several summers on the banks of the Klutina river fishing with her grandfather. After practicing as a dental hygienist in her hometown, she relocated to Sitka, Alaska where she provided care to remote communities which encouraged her to pursue dental school.