Practice Manager, Department of Neurosurgery/Neuro-oncology
Here is what Sanica’s nominator shared about her:
“Sanica is a new manager and goes above and beyond for staff, patients, and our community. She thinks outside of the box to increase access for our patients, recognize the important work of our teams and smiles everyday keeping a positive mindset.”
Nomination by Janice Earl
Sanica’s Bio:
Sanica is a Virginia native who joined UCSF in 2020 after obtaining her MHA from Medical University of South Carolina. She was part of the UCSF administrative fellowship program. As an administrative fellow, Sanica had the opportunity to work on a diverse portfolio of impactful projects across the health system.
One of her most memorable fellowship projects was the development of the CARE Support Program. Instead of relying on security, this program implemented a more therapeutic, trauma informed workflow for when a patient and/or family member experiences an emotional/behavioral crisis within our hospitals. Additionally, the program provided added training resources to the front line team to better support them when these instances occur.
After completing her fellowship in 2022, Sanica accepted her current role as a practice manager for Neurosurgery.
What advice would you give yourself early on in your career? To a woman entering your field today?
Be comfortable with the uncomfortable. Get yourself involved in opportunities outside...
Unit Director, Department of Nursing, Adult Intensive Care Unit and Adult Rapid Response Team
Here are what Danielle’s nominators had to say about her:
Danielle not only manages two ICUs on separate campuses with very different patient populations and separate staff, but she still finds time to be a part of our team of ICU Leaders, and to assist and encourage her colleagues at Parnassus. Danielle is busy outside of work with a leadership position in a community organization (Rotary Club) and gives so much of her time to the community at large in addition to her leadership in the UCSF community. She is truly a woman to spotlight - an under-the-radar leader who is doing great things.
Nomination by Janice Elzinga
"I've had quite a few managers in different hospital systems and Danielle stands out. Her management style is an open door policy, her communication style is fantastic because she's a great listener, she's open and friendly. She's approachable for absolutely any question I have and she has such a large breadth of knowledge for the system and the way things work that it's a breath of fresh air when we need specific guidance from our leaders. Kudos to a great boss who's friendly, reachable at all hours (sorry!) and covers any and all topics."
Nomination by Eli Piyevsky
Danielle’s Bio:
My nursing career began in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit at Renown Health in Reno, Nevada in 2000. I loved working in this high acuity environment and...
Senior Clinical Research Coordinator, Pediatric Endocrinology
Here is what Laura's nominator had to say about her:
Laura has been a dedicated clinic research coordinator for 10 years, helping hundreds of patients be able to obtain needed medication for their conditions. She has fundraised and coordinated for many charity walks, like Miles for Migraine. She also serves on the clinic research coordinators committee board and is a mentor and advocate for new clinical research coordinators. Also, her friendly personality and enthusiasm for helping others just puts a smile on your face when you meet and speak with her!
Nominated by Haley Randolph.
Laura’s Bio:
I grew up in the bay area and joined UCSF in the Department of Neurology in 2013 as a Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) at the UCSF Headache Center. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, an NCPT National Certified Phlebotomy Technician, CPT-1 license in Phlebotomy, and most recently, Certified Clinical Research Professional, CCRP through the SoCRA society SOCRA The Society of Clinical Research Associates, Inc. Early in my career, following the good advice from the previous research coordinator that I took over for in Neurology, I attended the Institutional Review Board (IRB) trainings (in person) and passed out my new business cards to the faculty and IRB leadership trainers. Not only was this key advice, but I also met the IRB leadership team that day and was invited to join the Clinical Research Steering Committee (now the...
Director of Communications, Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care
Here is what Dani's nominator had to say about her:
Dani is a strong and determined leader who consistently embodies the UCSF PRIDE values of excellence and integrity. Her involvement and leadership in the Administrative Management Professionals (AMP) group have helped improve the steering committee and outcomes of the sub-committees as well. Overall, Dani is an impactful and fearless leader, and she deserves to be recognized for all she does.”
Nominated by Hira Safdar
Dani’s Bio:
I came to UCSF in 2006 and worked as an assistant in the Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI). During my 4 years in CVRI, I attended SF State, receiving a bachelor’s degree in Business (Marketing) and a master’s degree in Sustainable Business. I then moved to the Department of Medicine, supporting Maye Chrisman when she was the Associate Chair. Soon after, I became a course coordinator in the Division of Education, running medical school courses for first- and third-year students. There, I was able to work with a great admin team and learn from the faculty leaders.
While I was working in the School of Medicine, I was attending many of the fun events that Campus Life Services’ Arts & Events put on. I became more interested in event production and eventually applied for a role with Campus Life Services (CLS). I was the executive assistant to the Associate Vice Chancellor, Angela Hawkins. My first project in that role was throwing...
Associate Professor, Division of Prevention Science in the Department of Medicine
Here is what Parya's nominator had to say about her:
“Dr. Saberi has taken a painful, heartbreaking moment in time – difficult for both those who live inside Iran, as well as those who watch from a distance or have families who are directly impacted – and helped galvanize the energy and emotion into something positive.” Another nominator summed it up well: “Dr. Saberi is a true leader and an inspiring scientist and activist. She is a role model for future generations of female scientists, activists, and leaders.”
Parya’s Bio:
Dr. Saberi is an Associate Professor at UCSF’s Department of Medicine. She joined UCSF in 2005 for her second-year residency and her fellowship, and continued as faculty in the Division of Prevention Science where she is the Principal Investigator of multiple NIH grants and the Director of the Center for AIDS Prevention Studies’ Developmental Core. She conducts behavioral research on HIV treatment and prevention with a focus on improving healthcare delivery to increase access for all and reducing health disparities among people with HIV. Dr. Saberi is an expert clinical consultant for the CDC/HRSA-funded National Clinician Consultation Center (HIV Warmline, PEPline, PrEPline, and Perinatal HIV Hotline), which has the mission of promoting health equities...
Assistant Clinical Professor and Associate Chief of Pediatric Optometry
Here is what Leila's nominator had to say about her:
Dr. Shirazi started 8 years ago as a staff optometrist and has consistently demonstrated exemplary clinical care. In the last 3 years her contributions to the department were finally recognized and she was promoted the Associate Chief of Pediatric Optometry, where she functions much more like a practice manager-- managing not only the optometrists, but also orthoptists, optician, technicians, and admin support staff. She even plays a heavy role in managing operations affecting the pediatric MDs as well. She accomplishes all this with almost a full patient load and makes it look effortless, but I know she pours hours and hours of time and thought into her work to make the clinics run as smoothly as possible. She is tenacious and a team player and great with patients. What a gift to the department!
Leila's Bio:
Fresh out of optometry residency, I joined the Pediatric Ophthalmology team at UCLA, with the goal of “one day” coming back home to the Bay Area. “One day” came so soon. One year later almost 8 years ago, I joined the Pediatric Ophthalmology team at UCSF, and have been privileged to work in a multidisciplinary teaching institution, one of the best in the nation, provide eye care to our wonderful patients, and teach our excellent residents and medical students. About 2.5 years ago, I took on a leadership role with the Pediatric Ophthalmology and Optometry team...
Administrative Officer, Central Adminiatration, Campus Life Services
Can you tell us about an important role model or mentor in your life?
In recent years, I had the privilege of working under two remarkable leaders who saw my potential and invested their time and effort in developing my critical, analytical, and technical hard skills while strengthening my soft skill set. Their mentorship has molded me into a well-rounded professional who aspires to achieve great things and supports, amplifies, and motivates others to grow in their careers. I am very humble and greatful to have these amazing mentors in my life.
Anything you are excited about – professionally or otherwise?
My long-term goal is to inspire, mentor, and nurture talent in others, especially those at the lower to mid-level and create opportunities for them. I believe that shared inspiring experiences can motivate others to push beyond their limits and achievements. Hence, I aspire to lead by example and use my experience to level-up those who are not reaching their potential.
What do you like to do outside of work?
When I am outside of work, I love to spend time with my fur babies and explore the neighboring countries when I get the opportunities. Traveling to other countries teaches me to be more humble and understanding of diffrent cultures while opening my eye to see new things.
Outreach Project Coordinator, Neurosurgery
Kayla's Bio:
More to come
Director, Department of Respiratory Care
Sam's Bio:
More to come
Operations Manager, Neurosciences Service Line
Jessica's Bio:
I am a native San Franciscan, but recently moved back to the Bay Area after living in Houston, Texas for seven years. I am thrilled to be back in my hometown and working at UCSF.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy running, hiking, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
What advice would you give to a woman entering your field today?
Work hard, have a voice, and do not be afraid to ask for what you want.
Why did you decide to join the Women of UCSF Health's Committee?
I decided to join Women of UCSF committee and volunteer team because I wanted to get more involved in the organization outside my role, collaborate with colleagues I typically do not have the opportunity to work with, and further support women in healthcare.