Regulatory Specialist, Department of Regulatory Affairs

Here is what Sara's nominator had to say about her: 

Sara continued to go above and beyond to ensure regulatory compliance. For years, Sara has helped guide teams to ensure accreditation. We could not have maintained our stroke certification without her. 

Nominated by: Rebecca Hidalgo Salomon

Sara's Bio:  

I began my career as an ICU nurse and later transitioned into the PACU, drawn to the intense, high-acuity critical care environments and the opportunity to care for patients in their most vulnerable moments. Those experiences taught me the importance of reliable systems, teamwork, communication, and consistent workflows in supporting staff under pressure. I later stepped into leadership as a nurse manager, where my passion shifted from individual patient care to empowering our teams and creating a supportive environment for staff to thrive. 

My journey ultimately led me into regulatory, where I now focus on strengthening organizational readiness, safety, and compliance. At UCSF, I’ve collaborated with various departments to streamline processes…

Registered Nurse, UCSF Interventional Pulmonary Clinic at Mount Zion 

Here is what Maureen's nominators had to say about her:

Maureen is THE FACE of a UCSF nurse! She is incredible from her clinical knowledge to her advocacy for patients, fellow staff (clinical and administrative), to the doctors she works for. She thinks about everything from the macro to the micro level of details and how everything can work together to improve care for patients. Her fierce passion for healthcare creates an environment where you are being elevated to be the best you can. She coordinates seamlessly with many different disciplines and is resourceful to finding answers for patients and for staff should we need. At the core, she is such a beautiful human soul that deserves to be spotlighted!

Nominated by: Jennie Vu

I am nominating her because she is an exceptional nurse who consistently goes above and beyond for her patients. She always puts their needs first, treating each person with kindness, respect, and genuine compassion. Her ability to listen, comfort, and provide thoughtful care makes a real difference in the lives of those she serves. She not only…

Senior Director, Patient Care Services, UCSF Health Stanyan & Hyde Hospitals 

Here is what Patricia's nominator had to say about her:

Patricia is an exceptional leader and advocate for nursing. She has been integral to the SMSF acquisition and integration into UCSF Health. Her positivity, thoughtful approach, and visibility during the transition and beyond has been essential to maintain hospital operations. During this complex transition, she has continued to mentor and grow frontline leaders, support quality, and maintain engagement from all levels of staff. She leads with her heart and her efforts deserve recognition!

Nominated by: Tristin Penland

Patricia’s Bio:

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Radiology Administrative Supervisor, Department of Radiology

Here is what Whitney's nominator had to say about her:

Whitney Higbee embodies leadership, resilience, and excellence at UCSF Radiology. As the Radiology Admin Manager, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring that operations run seamlessly, balancing complex administrative demands with a people-…

Associate Director of Clinical Operations, UCSF Cancer Services on the Peninsula

Here is what Maritess's nominator had to say about her:

I would like to nominate Tess for her extraordinary leadership accomplishments within our team. She is an incredible leader, always placing exceptional patient care at the forefront while somehow managing to also maintain the wellbeing of her staff, in all the forms that looks. She is the living example of UCSF PRIDE Values. Since joining the Peninsula team a short several months ago, she has evolved clinical operations, opened a second infusion center, and recruited for a dozen positions. With the collaboration of her leadership team, she has endured all the challenges put forth on this venture including but not limited to strikes, power outages, and unique staffing challenges. She is a mentor for future nurse leaders. Tess is always smiling on even the hardest of days. I truly cannot think of anyone more deserving of this spotlight!

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Associate Professor of Radiology | Chief, Breast Imaging Division

UCSF Department of Radiology

Here is what Tatiana's nominator had to say about her:

I’m pleased to nominate Dr. Tatiana Kelil for the Women of UCSF spotlight. Dr. Kelil is Associate Professor in Radiology and interim Division Chief for Breast Imaging at UCSF. She brings together clinical excellence, innovation, and a clear dedication to patient care.

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Ambulatory Administrative Supervisor, Interventional Radiology - Body IR, Neuro IR/NES, HHT, PTC, RTC

Here is what Cindy's nominator had to say about her:

Cindy Tato, the Interventional Radiology Scheduling Supervisor at UCSF, stands out as a true leader in her field. With a deep mastery of IR scheduling, she handles the department’s intricate demands with unmatched precision, ensuring smooth operations and timely patient care. Cindy’s approachable demeanor and willingness to assist make her a cornerstone for her team, always ready to address challenges, share insights, or provide guidance.

Her knack for fostering collaboration with IR physicians has elevated the department’s efficiency, particularly in coordinating complex procedures. Cindy doesn’t just oversee scheduling; she transforms it into a seamless process that prioritizes both patient outcomes and team productivity. Her…

Amy Vincent, MS, CRT (R) (M), Radiology Services Manager, Clinical & Operations Management, Breast Imaging Services, UCSF Health

Clinical Professor, Anesthesia & Perioperative Care, Chief Quality Officer and Vice President, Department of Quality and Safety, UCSF Health

Here is what Amy's nominator had to say about her:

It is a true honor to nominate Dr. Amy Lu for the Women of UCSF Health Spotlight. As Chief Quality Officer and Vice President of UCSF Health, Dr. Lu leads with extraordinary vision, humility, and compassion, qualities that have elevated UCSF Health to new heights of excellence.

Under her leadership over the past several years, UCSF Health has earned national recognition as a Vizient Top Performer for four consecutive years, received Leapfrog “A” Safety Grades and Top Teaching Hospital designations, achieved 5-Star CMS ratings, and been named to the U.S. News & World Report Honor Roll each year since 2022. Read more here. 

What makes Dr. Lu remarkable goes beyond the accolades. She leads with authenticity, creating space for…

HS Clinical Professor, Director of UCSF Neurofibromatosis Program and Medical Director of Cross Bay Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology and Pediatrics

Here is what Alyssa's nominator had to say about her:

Dr. Reddy's career has spanned many years, contributing greatly to the care of patients with brain tumors and neurofibromatosis. She is also leading the neuro-oncology cross bay program leading through transition and furthering collaborations among Oakland and SF. She is a supportive member of the team and proactive in multidisciplinary care of patients and support of the team. After spending many years in Alabama, she has been an asset to UCSF in her time with us and we all benefit from her guidance and advocacy. 

Nominated by Shannon Raber, NP

Alyssa's Bio:

Dr. Alyssa Reddy is a pediatric neurologist and neuro-oncologist with expertise in treating children who have tumors of the nervous system. She has more than 25 years of experience in caring for children and young adults with brain tumors and other neurologic disorders.  Reddy directs UCSF Neurofibromatosis (NF) Program which has rapidly expanded since she joined the faculty in 2018. This genetic disorder,…