Director of Finance & Administration

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

Georgina has given me the flexibility and autonomy I needed to grow in my position. This past year the frank discussions we have had have been humbling, motivating, and have enabled me to reflect on myself and further develop. She has had my back and supported not only my successes but also my mistakes.  When we meet, her comments and inquiries often open the doors for further reflection, study, and change.  I greatly appreciate her guidance and support.

Nomination by: Heidi Frank. 

Georgina's Bio: 

Georgina Lopez has been at UCSF for more than 30 years and is currently the Director of Finance and Administration for the Institute for Global Health Sciences (IGHS) and the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics (DEB). She plays a critical role in managing and overseeing the activities of more than 750 faculty, staff, and students. 
 
In her capacity as Director of Finance and Administration, Ms. Lopez is responsible for the financial and administrative functions of both IGHS and DEB. This includes overseeing and managing all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and reporting for these departments. She ensures that financial resources are appropriately allocated and utilized to support the research and educational initiatives of faculty and staff. 

Can you tell us about a significant role model or mentor in your life?  

Elizabeth Stoller, a retired UCSF manager, played a pivotal role as both a mentor and sponsor in my career. She not only provided guidance and feedback but also recognized my leadership potential. Through the UC Management Development Program, she supported my professional training and offered invaluable advice during critical moments. This online definition resonates with me: “While a mentor typically gives you advice or feedback and coaches you on specific skill sets, a sponsor goes a step further. They go out of their way to help you gain visibility and land opportunities that can advance your career.” I highly recommend seeking mentors and identifying sponsors to support career growth at UCSF. 

What brought you to healthcare? Can you tell us about your professional journey?  

I entered the healthcare field through a non-traditional path. Originally pursuing a career in health research, my life took me on a different journey. After traveling through Europe, getting married, and living in the Netherlands, I returned to the Bay Area when I became pregnant. Seeking more meaningful work, I transitioned from a large financial institution to a cancer research non-profit. When the researcher I worked for joined UCSF, I was fortunate to be part of the team that moved with her. 

At UCSF, I began as a Blank Assistant 3, a title that initially puzzled me but ultimately provided valuable opportunities. In addition to my research assistant responsibilities, I actively contributed in various areas once my research duties were complete. This role allowed me to develop skills in office management, research administration, and financial management, among others. By leveraging my financial background, eagerness to learn, and ability to see the bigger picture, I advanced in my career. 

Now, as I approach retirement, I am proud to have served as the Director of Finance & Administration for the Institute for Global Health Sciences and the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at UCSF. Over the past 32 years, the people at UCSF have continued to inspire me, and while I look forward to retirement, I will genuinely miss the many individuals I have encountered along the way. 

What do you like to do outside of work?  

I have a deep passion for travel and the exploration of new places and cultures. From selecting my next destination to planning the journey, I thoroughly enjoy the process. The world offers an abundance of breathtaking sights, sounds, cuisine, and fascinating people that I look forward to discovering.  

Meet other outstanding women of UCSF through Our Spotlight.