Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I moved to Long Island from Brooklyn in the 90’s when I started dental school. When I opened my orthodontic practice in Huntington in 2003, I completely fell in love with this town—the charm, the people, the sense of community. Not long after, I made it home and raised my daughter here.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
I’m a very proud mom to an incredible young woman—and now a grandmother to two beautiful children. I truly feel lucky to experience both roles… and I’m loving every minute of it.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
I have a bit of a green thumb 😊
I wouldn’t call myself a professional gardener, but I love learning about plants and bringing them back to life. If someone says they’re ready to give up on a houseplant, I’m usually the first one to say, “I’ll take it!”—and give it a second chance to flourish.
Anyone special you would like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
I became a mom at a young age, while also adjusting to a new country, a new language, and a new way of life. I truly couldn’t have done it without my parents and grandparents—they gave me the support I needed to continue my education and build my career.
One of my favorite traditions with my daughter started during those busy years. I would take her with me to continuing education courses, and she would sit through lectures (long before smartphones existed!). Looking back, I’m sure it wasn’t always exciting for her—but those trips became some of our most special memories.
Today, we still cherish that time together. Now she’ll come over, and we’ll sit and read side by side—until my granddaughter joins us and insists on reading to us instead. Those are the moments I treasure most.
Favorite things to do with your kids?
Traveling together is something we’ve always loved. I believe so much in exposing children to new places, cultures, and experiences—it opens their world in such a beautiful way.
And honestly, some of my favorite memories are the simplest ones—quiet moments reading together, talking, just being present. Those moments look a little different now than when she was little, but they’re just as meaningful.
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, or a creative endeavor?
I’m the founder of Gellerman Orthodontics here in Huntington, and building my practice has truly been a labor of love—especially starting at a time when there were far fewer women owning businesses in my field.
Outside of the office, giving back to the community is something that’s very important to me. I focus my efforts on supporting education, health, and the arts—because those are the pillars that help a community truly thrive.
I’m currently the Co-President of Pink Aid Long Island, an organization very close to my heart that supports women going through breast cancer. I also stay involved with local initiatives that support students, healthcare access, and creative programs for young people.
At the practice, we love mentoring the next generation—we offer internships for high school students interested in dentistry and healthcare, and we’re always looking for ways to inspire future leaders.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
This community has given me so much—both personally and professionally. The trust, support, and relationships I’ve built here mean everything to me.
As a working mom building a business, it truly takes a village—and Huntington has been that village for me. That’s why I feel such a strong responsibility to give back and help make it an even better place for the next generation.
I’ve been honored by several local organizations over the years, but the most meaningful reward is seeing the impact we can make together—whether it’s helping a child smile with confidence, supporting a family in need, or investing in our community’s future.
