April 2025 Spotlight 

Dr. Jade Hiramoto, MD, MAS

Professor of Surgery, Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs, Department of Surgery

Dr. Jade Hiramoto is a dedicated leader who exemplifies strength, authenticity, and transformative leadership in a field where women remain underrepresented. As a vascular surgeon at UCSF, she manages some of the most complex and high-risk cases with calm precision, earning the trust of both patients and colleagues. Her leadership extends beyond the operating room—she mentors future surgeons, champions equitable care, and shapes clinical strategy as the Department of Surgery’s Vice Chair for Clinical Affairs. Dr. Hiramoto redefines what leadership looks like in surgery, making space for others to succeed and sending a powerful message to women in medicine: they belong, and they can lead.

Learn more here! 

March 2025 Spotlight 

Desi Kotis, BSPharm, PharmD, FASHP

Chief Pharmacy Executive, UCSF Health and Vice Dean, Clinical Affairs, UCSF School of Pharmacy

Dr. Desi Kotis is a dedicated and strategic leader in pharmacy, serving as Chief Pharmacy Executive for UCSF Health System and Vice Dean of Clinical Affairs for UCSF School of Pharmacy. With a distinguished career spanning leadership roles in regulatory oversight, quality, safety, and financial stewardship, she has received numerous accolades, including the Vizient David A. Zilz Leadership Award in 2024. Beyond her expertise, she is known for her commitment to mentorship and collaboration, always taking the time to listen and support those around her.

Learn more here! 

January 2025 Spotlight

Sarah Palilla, PA-C

Senior PA-C, UCSF Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery

As the Program Coordinator for the UCSF Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Program, Sarah Palilla has demonstrated unparalleled dedication and expertise, significantly enhancing patient outcomes and reviews. Her innovative approach to patient care and program management has been instrumental in the program’s success, including two recent reaccreditations from MBSAQIP. Sarah’s leadership, meticulous attention to detail, and compassionate patient interactions embody the excellence that this Spotlight represents.

Learn more here!

January 2025 Spotlight

LaShawnda Ross, MS-HCA

Practice Supervisor, UCSF Department of Ophthalmology

LaShawnda Ross is a dynamic and dedicated Practice Supervisor in the Ophthalmology department. Known for her efficiency and practical approach, she ensures her team is well-trained, supported, and able to deliver their best. Balancing her professional responsibilities with being a single mom, her commitment to excellence and teamwork makes her an invaluable asset to UCSF Health.

Learn more here!

January 2025 Spotlight

April Ridley, RN

Registered Nurse, Mission Bay Adult Acute Care

April came to UCSF Mission Bay initially as a Travel RN and knew immediately that this organization values aligned. April made the choice to make San Francisco home and has been staff for 6 years now, moving into the Charge Nurse roll as well as precepting new staff. “Having patients know that they are seen as a whole, complex person is my utmost goal as a Registered Nurse, and that has been my True North throughout my career at the bedside the past 22 years.”

Learn more here!

December 2024 Spotlight

Leila Tabrizi, MS, RD

Associate Director, Nutrition & Food Services Mission Bay

Leila Tabrizi is the Associate Director, Nutrition & Food Services at Mission Bay. Leila joined UCSF 14 years ago and has been in various leadership roles supporting the Nutrition & Food Services department at UCSF. She is passionate about improving the patient experience and continuing to be a leader and mentor for her team.

Learn more here!

December 2024 Spotlight

Jessica Greenwood, MPH

Operations Manager, Neurosciences Service Line

Jessica joined UCSF in June 2022 as the Operations Manager for the Neurosciences Service Line. In her role, Jessica is responsible for inpatient strategic planning, growth, and quality and safety for Neurosciences. She is known for her leadership and collaboration.

Learn more here!

December 2024 Spotlight

Heidi Collins

Vice President of Health IT Operations, UCSF Health

Heidi Collins, VP of Health IT Operations, is a transformative leader dedicated to empowering her team. With 25 years of experience in healthcare administration, she has led numerous complex IT initiatives to success, keeping her team motivated and fostering a collaborative environment. At UCSF, she has played a key role in expanding the Epic system and is now focused on organizational design and preparing the workforce for future technological demands. Heidi’s expertise and leadership are instrumental in driving the Health IT program and the future of UCSF.

Learn more here!

November 2024 Spotlight

Claudine Catledge, MA

Progam Manager, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

With over 16 years at UCSF, Claudine has made significant contributions to advancing healthcare and mental health access for historically excluded communities. Starting as Lab Manager at the SF VA Medical Center, she joined UCSF in 2008 as a Senior Clinical Research Coordinator in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences. Now, as Program Manager for the PReMIUM Lab and ARCHES Program, Claudine is celebrated for her warmth, inclusivity, and exceptional communication, embodying UCSF’s mission, and values. Her dedication and leadership continue to inspire and uplift colleagues and the community alike.

Learn more here!

October 2024 Spotlight

Janice Earl

Director, Neurological Surgery

Janice is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, both within UCSF and as a CASA volunteer supporting foster children. With nearly 25 years in healthcare, she began at Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland and joined UCSF in 2019, serving as Admin Director for multiple specialties. For the past three years, she has been a key part of the Neurosurgery team, leading critical initiatives and shaping the department’s future alongside top surgeons and staff. Her role blends her dedication to patient care with strategic leadership and innovation. 

Learn more here!

October 2024 Spotlight

Lauren Ragan Wilkerson MA, MT-BC 

Music Therapist Board Certified BCH Oakland Hematology/Oncology & Surgical

Lauren has worked in the music therapy profession for 11+ years, gaining experience in pediatrics, mental health, special education, and palliative/hospice.  Prior to working at UCSF she pioneered music therapy services at a variety of Bay Area pediatric units including work in private practice. Her current role involves direct clinical work on inpatient UCSF BCH-Oakland hematology/oncology units and working with the UCSF BCH-Oakland trauma team. In addition to inpatient clinical work, she is also the co-chair lead for UCSF’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion-Anti Racism Council.   

Learn more here!

September 2024 Spotlight

Rebecca Hidalgo Salomon, MSN, RN

Stroke Program Coordinator, Department of Neurosciences 

Rebecca Hidalgo Salomon is a champion for her team and a passionate contributor to the UCSF Health community. Rebecca has been a pivotal force in advancing stroke care at UCSF for over two years. With over a decade of nursing experience and a Master’s in Clinical Nurse Leadership, Rebecca leads with dedication and innovation, driving improvements in patient outcomes and multidisciplinary collaboration. Her journey from a childhood in San Francisco to a respected leader in healthcare reflects her unwavering commitment to advocacy and excellence. Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys spending time with her family, reading classic literature, and engaging in community outreach.

Learn more here!

September 2024 Spotlight

Beatrice (Betty) Lopez

Hospital assistant III, Neuroendovascular Surgery (NES)

Beatrice is an exceptionally conscientious and patient-oriented hospital assistant who excels in building rapport with patients and their families. A dedicated team player, she consistently demonstrates UCSF PRIDE values in her interactions with colleagues and patients. Beatrice's initiative and empathy stand out, as she instinctively anticipates needs and provides support with warmth and kindness. Her 12-year tenure in UCSF Radiology, supporting various modalities, has fueled her passion for patient care, motivating her to pursue a career as an MRI technologist. She is on track to complete her MRI program by the end of the year, with invaluable support from her supervisor and management.

Learn more here!

August 2024 Spotlight

Ailene Estalilla

Chief of Staff, UCSF Police Department

Ailene Estalilla began her career at UCSF nine years ago as a temporary employee and is currently Chief of Staff for the UCSF Police Department.  Ailene has played a key role in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives within Finance and Administrative Services (FAS) at UCSF.  She was nominated for this spotlight by a wonderful mentor and colleague for her commitment to excellence in everything she does. 

Learn more here!

August 2024 Spotlight

Carolyn Caughell, MSN, RN, CIC, FAPIC

Pediatric Infection Preventionist 

Carolyn Caughell joined UCSF 12 years ago and is currently one of the Pediatric Infection Preventionist for Benioff Children’s Hospital San Francisco.  In this role, she channels her passion for implementing evidence-based practices, conducting thorough investigations of infection outbreaks, and educating healthcare staff and families.  Her dedication to infection prevention helps minimize the risk of infections, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for our youngest and most vulnerable patients.  

Learn more here!

July 2024 Spotlight

Suria Sadat

Fellowship Program Administrator, Department of Pathology

Over the past decade at UCSF, Suria Sadat has transitioned from a political science graduate to a seasoned administrator across departments, currently serving as the Fellowship Program Administrator in the Department of Pathology.  Through diverse experiences, including event coordination and collaboration with various departments, Suria has found fulfillment and a sense of belonging within UCSF's inclusive community. She excelled in graduate medical education, earning accolades and contributing to initiatives such as Women in Tech at UCSF. 

Learn more here!

July 2024 Spotlight

Madee Milanes, MSN, RN

Administrative Director, Dept of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery

Madee Milanes, who has been with UCSF for over 30 years, joined the Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery as Administrative Director in 2017. She was nominated for this Spotlight for her outstanding leadership in championing her team and fostering the development of emerging leaders.

Learn more here!

July 2024 Spotlight

Annette O'Gorman OTR/L

Assistant Director, Inpatient Rehab Services Parnassus and Mt Zion

Annette O’Gorman is the Assistant Director Inpatient Rehab Services Parnassus and Mt Zion. Having worked as an Occupational Therapist in Ireland, Annette moved to San Francisco over 20 years ago, joining and growing at UCSF.  Annette has taken on more formal leadership roles throughout her time here and has a passion for continuous quality improvement.

Learn more here!

June 2024 Spotlight

Camela Tejano

Supply Chain Lead, Material Services Supply and Distribution

Camela joined UCSF 11 years ago, contributing her skills and passion across various departments. She is now the Supply Chain Lead for Material Services and Supply Distribution, passionate about putting the customer first and committed to ensuring a positive experience. Camela is a collaborative team member who thrives in a fast- paced environment, adaptable and eager to contribute to the teams success.   

Learn more here!

June 2024 Spotlight

Georgina Lopez

Director of Finance & Administration, Institute for Global Health Sciences and the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics

Georgina Lopez, with over 30 years at UCSF, is the Director of Finance and Administration for the Institute for Global Health Sciences (IGHS) and the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics (DEB). In this crucial position, she oversees the activities of over 750 faculty, staff, and students. Known for her supportive and empowering nature, Georgina encourages growth and development among her colleagues. 

Learn more here!

June 2024 Spotlight

Jennifer Dearman BN, RN, MBA

Director of FPO Expansion, Ambulatory Administration, Faculty Practice Office 

Jennifer possesses the ability to inspire and motivate those around her. Through her remarkable set of attributes and innovative thinking, she’s always able navigate through challenges and lead her team to success. Her commitment to excellence makes her an exceptional role model for all who have the privilege of working alongside her. Jennifer is an extraordinary leader who embodies pragmatism, kindness, compassion, and strength under pressure. Her leadership style sets a high standard for others to follow and her dedication to excellent patient care is commendable. 

Learn more here!

April 2024 Spotlight

Natalie Williams

Administrative Supervisor, UCSF Health Contact Center - Gastroenterology & Hepatology pod 

Natalie Williams has been with UCSF since 2019 and is the Administrative Supervisor of the Gastroenterology & Hepatology pod in the UCSF Health Contact Center. She was inspired to pursue a leadership role at UCSF through her participation in the Ambulatory Elevate Leadership Development Program.  She was nominated for this Spotlight for consistently advocating for her team and their professional growth.    

Learn more here!

April 2024 Spotlight

Ellyn McCaffrey

Assistant Controller, Contracts & Grants Accounting, UCSF Controller’s Office

Ellyn McCaffrey joined UCSF 15 years ago and is currently the Assistant Controller. The Assistant Controller is a hands-on, participative leader and decision maker who develops and directs an internal team that supports the Controller and all of UCSF in the areas of accounting, financial reporting, and audit. She was nominated for this Spotlight for her incredible support to departments, her approachability, and the time she gives, consistently acting on a great piece of advice she was given years ago by a mentor, “Be on Time.”  

Learn more here!

March 2024 Spotlight

Gillian Otway, RN, MSN

Nursing Director, Perinatal, Pediatrics and Nursing Administration, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital

Gillian Otway is the current Nursing Director for Perinatal, Pediatrics and Nursing Administration at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Hospital (ZSFG). Gillian’s career has encompassed her many passions including serving underserved communities, championing programs to serve birthing mothers and families, mentoring the next generation of nurses, and diversity and equity initiatives. She is described by her colleagues as a forceful, yet kind leader who leads by example and inspires others.

Learn more here!

March 2024 Spotlight

Traci E. Ito, MD FACOG

Assistant Professor, Director of Robotic Education & Simulation (OB/gyn), Department of OB/gyn, Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery

Traci E. Ito, MD, FACOG, is on the verge of marking her third year at UCSF with significant contributions across several domains. She plays a crucial role within the Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery (MIGS), serves as one of the directors at the comprehensive endometriosis center, and leads as the Director of the Robotic Education and Simulation program. Her expertise spans treating conditions such as fibroids, pelvic pain, and endometriosis, alongside orchestrating surgical solutions for complex cases. She is passionate about performing and teaching robotic surgery. By leading robot school and dry labs, Traci is dedicated to improving residents' mastery of robotic technology. Her goal is to combat inequities in women’s healthcare as it pertains to surgical approach and care. 

Learn more here!

February 2024 Spotlight

Allison Savage

Manager, Special Projects and Staff Engagement, Office of Medical Education, School of Medicine

Allison Savage serves as the Manager of Special Projects and Staff Engagement in the Office of Medical Education (OME) within the School of Medicine. She has been acknowledged by a colleague for her pivotal role in advancing the strategic mission of OME, ensuring the delivery of high-quality education to students. Allison is recognized for her leadership in spearheading diverse projects aimed at enhancing the professional development of staff. Also, she has earned acclaim for fostering a sense of community and teamwork among the OME staff, while also supporting the deans and faculty in their efforts to deliver a world-class medical education curriculum. 

Learn more here!

February 2024 Spotlight

Patricia Loftus, MD

Associate Professor Division of Rhinology and Skull Base Surgery​, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery

Learn more here!

January 2024 Spotlight

Uma Mahadevan, MD

Lynne and Marc Benioff Professor of Gastroenterology, Director of the Colitis and Crohn's Disease Center, and Director of the Advanced IBD Fellowship at UCSF, Department of Medicine

Dr. Mahadevan is a global expert on the management of pregnancy and drug safety in the patient with IBD. She is also interested in the role of diet and IBD and has an ongoing original study in this area. Her current projects include a national prospective registry of pregnancy outcomes and drug safety in women with IBD on immunosuppressive and biologic medications (PIANO) and a clinical trial on the impact of nutritional interventions in the management of IBD (SEAMUS). She has an interest in digital health and lead the transition of the GI Division to telemedicine at the start of the pandemic in March 2020 and has developed an IBD Chatbot with the Center for Digital Health and Innovation at UCSF. Dr. Mahadevan is proud to have mentored several Advanced IBD Fellows who know hold key roles in IBD Centers around the United States.

Learn more here!

January 2024 Spotlight

Sanica Bendre, MHA

Practice Manager, Department of Neurosurgery/Neuro-oncology

Learn more here!

January 2024 Spotlight

Danielle Lallement, BSN, RN

Unit Director, Department of Nursing, Adult Intensive Care Unit and Adult Rapid Response Team

Mission Bay and Mount Zion Campus

Danielle joined the UCSF Neurological Intensive Care Unit in 2009 and is currently the Unit Director of the Adult Intensive Care Unit and Adult Rapid Response Team at both Mission Bay and Mount Zion Campus. Danielle gained much of her leadership skills through her 16 years of service with the Rotary Club, serving as Club President, and most recently, serving in the role of a District Governor, responsible for 45 Rotary Clubs in the San Francisco Bay Area. She was nominated for this Spotlight for her excellent leadership and management style. Danielle has a friendly open-door policy, she's a great listener, and is a guiding light for her staff.

Learn more here!

December 2023 Spotlight

Dani Cambier, MBA

Director of Communications, Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care

Dani Cambier, a member of UCSF since 2006, stands out as an excellent example of career advancement achieved through effective networking, building her career through her experience, education, professional connections and ability to navigate systems. She is actively involved in leadership roles on UCSF committees and has been recognized as an impactful and fearless leader. 

Learn more here!

December 2023 Spotlight

Laura A. Dapkus Humphries, NCPT, CCRP

Senior Clinical Research Coordinator, Pediatric Endocrinology

Laura joined UCSF in the Department of Neurology in 2013 as a Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) at the UCSF Headache Center. For the past 10 years, Laura has volunteered as one of the champions of the CRC Council, the Research Leadership Team, and Miles for Migraine. She greatly values mentoring other research coordinators in advancing their careers. 

Learn more here!

November 2023 Spotlight 

Parya Saberi, PharmD, MAS, MFA 

Associate Professor, Division of Prevention Science in the Department of Medicine

Parya Saberi, PharmD, MAS, MFA received a record number of 24!! nominations for the Woman of UCSF Spotlight, for her role in establishing the WomanLifeFreedom group at UCSF.  In October 2022, in response to the brutal crackdown on women in Iran and physicians who were assisting peaceful protesters, Dr. Saberi mobilized Iranian American UC members to raise awareness and work together for positive change. Coming together as WomanLifeFreedom, she tapped the community’s energy to tell the story of women and girls in Iran whose voices are not heard because of oppression. In less than two months, WomanLifeFreedom held cross-campus events, panel discussions, social events, and drafted a national petition to bring awareness to the imprisonment, torture and death of physicians who were simply doing their jobs.  WomanLifeFreedom also raised funds to help Iranian scholars through the UCSF Scholars at Risk Program and worked to provide telehealth services for Iranian healthcare professionals.  This work deserves recognition and celebration for exemplifying UCSF’s mission of advancing human rights and health world-wide. 

Learn more here!

November 2023 Spotlight 

 Leila H. Shirazi, OD, FAAO

Assistant Clinical Professor and Associate Chief of Pediatric Optometry

Leila Hajkazemshirazi is the Assistant Clinical Professor and Associate Chief of Pediatric Optometry, where she provides both clinical and administrative leadership to her team. UCSF's Pediatric Ophthalmology & Optometry Clinic evaluates and treats pediatric eye problems, from the most common to the rare and extremely complex.  Leila has a passion for consistently improving patient experience as well as operations and access to this highly-sought clinic.

Learn more here!

October 2023 Spotlight 

Linda Branagan, PhD

Director, Telehealth Programs, Telehealth Resource Center

Learn more here!

September 2023 Spotlight

Amy Hyams

Patient Experience Business Partner, Division of Health Experience Excellence

Learn more here!

September 2023 Spotlight

Lauren Ortiz-Urena

Department Business Manager, Clinical Technologies, UCSF Health

Nominated by Harold ‘Doug’ Shearer and her supporters at Clinical Technologies

Lauren Ortiz-Urena is the Business Manager for Clinical Technologies, where she has responsibility for overseeing the Business Operations encompassing the entire department. This department provides vital support to the expansive UCSF Health system and its remote clinics, spanning from the North Bay down to Monterey Bay. Lauren's exceptional contributions have led a colleague to nominate her as an invaluable asset within UCSF, both as an anchor for the department and as a mentor where she has played a pivotal role in the professional growth of many team members.

Learn more here! 

August 2023 Spotlight

Andréa S. Mejía

Manager of Administrative Operations, UCSF Health, Cancer Services

Nominated by 11 colleagues, Andrea Mejia is known for her infectious energy, compassionate leadership, and relentless kindness.

Learn more here! 

August 2023 Spotlight

Caroline Cortezia, MS CCLS

Neurosciences Improvement Specialist, Neurosciences Service Line, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital

Caroline Cortezia is an accomplished Certified Child Life Specialist and experienced Quality Improvement Specialist who joined UCSF in 2018. She was recognized by a colleague as someone who brings a wealth of knowledge about topics such as autism, diversity and inclusion, education and improving systems. Caroline is dedicated to making a difference specializing in integrating trauma informed care into quality improvement work at UCSF and helping bridge gaps in health equity patients are facing.

Learn more here! 

August 2023 Spotlight

Stephanie Feng, NP, MSN

Nurse Practitioner, GU Medical Oncology, Misson Bay

“Stephanie is hard-working and kind. She goes above and beyond for her colleagues and her patients. She exemplifies UCSF's values of patient-centered, evidence-based care, and I am proud to work with her."   

Learn more here! 

July 2023 Spotlight

Marlene Martin, MD

Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine, Director of Addiction Care Team, Director of Addiction Initiatives for the UCSF Latinx Center of Excellence, Department of Medicine based at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital 

Marlene Martin is an Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine providing expert addiction care to hospitalized patients with substance abuse disorders. She was recognized by her colleague as someone who demonstrates indefatigable advocacy for patients, especially those with a history of substance use disorders, and as a leader clinically in teaching others how to care for patients in a strengths-based, trauma-informed, and person-first way.  

Learn more here! 

June 2023 Spotlight

Angela May V. Pascua, MSN, RN, CNL 

Registered Nurse, Genitourinary Medical Oncology at Mission Bay

Angela May has been at UCSF since 2014 and has worked in roles such as a Research Nurse, Infusion Nurse, Assistant Nurse Manager, Clinical Nurse Educator, and Oncology Nurse. She is known for applying the knowledge, education, and experience that she has gained in her career towards making a difference in the lives of patients and staff at UCSF. In her spare time she is also involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Her colleagues report that she provides a positive environment where other fellow nurses can thrive, is a great mentor and is always willing to share her knowledge.

Learn more here!

May 2023 Spotlight

Bhairavi Tolani, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery 

Bhairavi Tolani is an inspiration as an accomplished cancer researcher and faculty member.  In addition, she is President of the SKY (Sudarshan Kriya Yoga) Breath Meditation organization at UCSF. She writes grants to fund SKY workshops and has been offering free workshops to UCSF faculty, staff, and students since 2019 where these breathing techniques can be learned to help people deal with stress, anxiety, and depression. These retreats are open to the entire UCSF community. 

Learn more here!

April 2023 Spotlight

Laurel Bray-Hanin

Vice President and COO, Adult Cancer Services 

After joining UCSF in 1997, Laurel Bray-Hanin continues to have immense impact on Cancer Services and the staff that place the patient experience is at the center of their work. 

Learn more here!

April 2023 Spotlight

Christina Gagnon

Finance Manager, Financial Planning, Faculty Practice Finance

Christina started at UCSF in 2014 as a senior analyst. As a Finance Manager in the FPO, she is responsible for supporting the development of the yearly budget, long-range plan, and benchmarking to make informed financial and strategic decisions. She works tirelessly to support these major initiatives with grace and makes it look effortless. 

Learn more here!

April 2023 Spotlight

Brandie Hollinger Quao

Unit Director, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, UCSF Benioff Childrens Hospital

Brandie is an incredible manager who leads her department with kindness and compassion. 

Learn more here!

March 2023 Spotlight

Rebecca Brassfield

Administrative Director, Digestive Cancer Service Line, UCSF Health Adult Cancer Services 

Learn more here!

March 2023 Spotlight

Chelsey Coco

Ultrasound Operations Manager for Parnassus Heights, Benioff Children’s Hospital at Mission Bay, Precision Cancer Medical Building, Mount Zion Medical Center, Joint Venture Golden Gates Women’s Imaging and UCSF/ John Muir Partnership at Berkeley Outpatient Center

Learn more here!

March 2023 Spotlight

Aday Robinson, RN, BSN, PHN

Nurse, USCF BCH-Oakland Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) 

Learn more here!

February 2023 Spotlight

Lori D. Fineman, RN, MS

Clinical Nurse Specialist, Department of Nursing

Lori has been an outstanding mentor and clinical leader within the Pediatric Heart Center for nurses and physicians, committed to providing the highest level of care for the Pediatric Cardiac population.  Her leadership has helped build a nationally recognized program, and her mentorship to the bedside nurses has allowed them to achieve the Beacon Award of Excellence. She is a clinical leader throughout the Children's Hospital by participating in multiple councils and providing expertise for the Pediatric Cardiac population.

Learn more here. 

February 2023 Spotlight

Jessica Pfannenstiel

Manager of CT Operations, Radiology & Biomedical Imaging 

Jessica A. Pfannenstiel, BSRT (R)(CT), manages CT operations at Parnassus Heights, Benioff Children’s Hospital at Mission Bay, the Spine Center at China Basin, the Precision Cancer Medical Building, and Mount Zion Medical Center.  

Learn more here. 

February 2023 Spotlight

Ellyn (Hyun-ok) Woo 

Director of Finance Management Team, Institute for Global Health Sciences

Ellyn is the Director of the Finance Management Team for the Institute for Global Health Sciences. She has been at UCSF for the past 18 years.  Her colleague Heidi Frank shared that “Ellyn is the rock that holds the department's finances together. She is amazing at her job and in addition is a great listener, problem solver and advocate.” When she is not working, Ellyn enjoys watching movies and spending time with her family and friends. 

Learn more here. 

January 2023 Spotlight

Saiqa Anne Qureshi

Special Projects and Chief Administrative Officer, School of Dentistry

Saiqa Anne is a well-informed and strategic administrator in the School of Dentistry who supports women around her to explore opportunities. She is gracious with her time in helping others explore career opportunities at UC that help them argue their skills and advance their careers within the university. 

Learn more here. 

January 2023 Spotlight

Michelle Sison

Nursing Professional Development Specialist, Center for Nursing Excellence and Innovation

Michelle is a Nursing Professional Development Specialist in the Center for Nursing Excellence and Innovation and the coach of the Nursing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council that was started in October 2020. Her colleague Christina Luu shared that ‘In addition to Michelle being amazing at bringing people together to make an impact on UCSF Health's culture, she is a humble human being, supportive team member, and advocator.” When she is not working on DEI and Nursing excellence, Michelle enjoys international travel and sunny SF days.  

Learn more here. 

December 2022 Spotlight

Shanna Travis 

Executive Assistant, Office of the Chair

Shanna joined the UCSF Department of Ophthalmology in 2011. She works in the Chair’s office supporting human resources and several different administrative functions.  Some advice that Shanna would give women entering UCSF, “True leadership, in my opinion, is not the ability to give directives, anyone can tell someone what they think should be done.  It is standing side-by-side with your team, teaching, learning together and celebrating your wins together.” Her colleagues report that she is always positive, helps when needed, creative, and is a wealth of knowledge for anyone needing help.

Click here to read more. 

December 2022 Spotlight

Jasmine Santoyo-Olsson

Project Director, Division of General Internal Medicine

Jasmine has been a Project Director in the Division of General Internal Medicine for the past 15 years. She is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of California Berkeley School of Public Health. Jasmine actively seeks research projects that focus on health equity and engage community throughout the research process. Her advice to folks starting out in their career is “when you hear 'no,' remind yourself 'sí, se puede' (yes you can). It is ok to take the road less traveled, there is no wrong or right way to get to where you want to be.”

Click here to read more. 

November 2022 Spotlight

Patience Vega

Director, Revenue Management

Patience Vega is a truly inspirational leader who continuously impresses her team with a can-do attitude. Although involved in several initiatives, she always makes time to check that her team is feeling supported.  Patience is a proven leader both within the Revenue Cycle and across the organization. When not at work, she is spending time with her lovely family.  

Click here to read more. 

October 2022 Spotlight 

Inez Bailey, MS

Director of Education & Strategic Initiatives, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics and Institute for Global Health Sciences

Inez Bailey is the Director of Education & Strategic Initiatives in the Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics and Institute for Global Health Sciences.  She is an incredible leader, motivator, and mover-shaker in all the spaces she reaches.  The heart of her career fits into three categories: create and build academic and academic support programs, make those programs as accessible and efficient as possible, and then hold space for all those involved – staff, students, and faculty– to do their best work. 

Click here to read more. 

October 2022 Spotlight

Leah Pimentel, MBA

Director of DEI and Culture, Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care

UCSF Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care has established a new leadership director level position and named Leah Pimentel as their inaugural Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Culture.  She previously served UCSF as the Assistant Director of Community Relations at the Office of Community & Government Relations. She brings more than 17 years of experience in healthcare, technology, and non-profit as a dynamic consultant leading cultural and operational change to the role. 

Click here to read more. 

September 2022 Spotlight

Usma Khan

Chief Program Officer, Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative

Usma Khan is the Director of Staffing & Strategic Operations at the Institute for Global Health Sciences. She founded the IGHS DEI committee and has served as IGHS DEI Committee co-chair for several years. A mother of two kids who is also a children’s book writer who does art projects during her free time. 

Click here to read more.

September 2022 Spotlight 

Jessica Welch 

Service Line Director, Surgical Services, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals 

Jessica is known as a “Superwoman” who drives improvements across the Benioff Children’s Hospital enterprise.   When Jessica isn’t serving in her leadership and mentoring roles fostering growth in others, you can find her in the garden fostering growth in beautiful flowers!

Click here to read more. 

August 2022 Spotlight

Denise Thomas

Payroll Analyst, Human Resources

Denise’s story is one of resilience and growth.  You are sure to feel inspired after learning more about her journey over the past nine years, and the transformation that is possible with optimism, honesty, and belief in oneself. 

Click here to read more. 

July 2022 Spotlight

Deborah Franzon

Professor of Pediatrics, Executive Medical Director of Quality & Safety, Benioff Children’s Hospitals, Interim

Deb's nominator said she is an incredible clinician, medical director of the PICU, and a cheerleader for her colleagues.

Click here to read more. 

July 2022 Spotlight

Kemi Amin

Director of Communications, Institute for Global Health Sciences and the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics

Kemi started at UCSF with a Marketing role for the UCSF Library.

Learn more about her journey here. 

June 2022 Spotlight

Christina Delsman

Project Analyst, Revenue Cycle Strategy

Christina Delsman is a Project Analyst ensuring Revenue Cycle readiness for the UCSF Health strategic expansion and integration projects. She creates immense value through assessing Revenue Cycle metrics and faciltating their optimization. 

Click here to read more. 

May 2022 Spotlight

Shana Johnson, MPH, RD

Clinical Dietitian

Shana Johnson is a clinical dietitian and has recently taken on many different roles in the nutrition department. With staff shortages, Shana has been covering multiple services as well as continuing to train new staff members and interns while providing solid patient care and maintaining a positive and calm attitude. She has truly been inspiring as we navigate ongoing uncertainty in the hospital as a result of pandemic consequences.

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April 2022 Spotlight

Heidi L. Willsher

Patient Care Manager, Pediatric Surgical Specialties Ambulatory

Heidi has been in healthcare for 32 years with her primary focus in Women's and Children's health with nursing speciality focus on inpatient Obstetrics/Maternal-Child Health, Ambulaory Care OBGYN, Prenatal Diagnosis, Infertility, Family Planning, UroGynecology, GynOncology, minimally invasive GYN, and Ambulatory Pediatric Surgical Specialities. She has a speciality RN certification on Inpatient Obstetrics, Ambulatory Care Nursing, Subspecialty Certification Electronic Fetal Monitoring, Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification, and Public Health Nursing. Heidi teaches, precepts, and mentors nursing students, residents, fellows, and new graduate nurses. 

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March 2022 Spotlight

Benita Benavides

Manager, Community Construcation Outreach Program

Benita manages UCSF's Community Construction Outreach Program (CCOP), which seeks to leverage UCSF's role as an Anchor Institution to train and place San Franciscans from disadvantaged neighborhoods on UCSF construction projects. Benita excels at navigating the male-dominated world of construction contractors and labor unions to press for increased local hiring on UCSF projects. She deploys in-depth industry knowledge as well as diplomacy to leverage her small team of one to get results for the university.

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March 2022 Spotlight

Ana Delgado, RN, MS, CNM

Professor, Ob/Gyn, Reproductive Sciences

Ana's coworkers say they are lucky to share spaces with her. She is a great advocate for patients and is always willing to educate them; her trauma informed approach helps her be respectful & caring. They consider her a role model and enjoy seeing her dedication to patients, diversity, and equity. 

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February 2022 Spotlight

Lisa Cisneros

Senior Director, Office of Communications

You may know Lisa Cisneros from the COVID-19 Response Town Halls over the past two years. She has served as executive producer of 50 Friday town halls, reaching a high of 7,200 viewers in March 2020 and now averaging about 2,000 attendees for each town hall. She has been privileged to work with the Chancellor, George Rutherford, Ralph Gonzales, Peter Chin-Hong, Monica Gandhi, Jon Giacomi and so many others. 

The town halls continue to be popular and represent one of the silver linings of the pandemic – addressing the most critical issues of our time, increasing visibility and accountability of UCSF leadership at the highest levels, sharing the expertise of our world-renowned faculty who are world leaders in their fields and facilitating two-way communication with our UCSF family.

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February 2022 Spotlight

Roxanna Irani, MD, PhD

Ambulatory Executive Medical Director for Women’s Health, Assistant Professor, Department of Obsterics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences

Roxanna Irani serves as the Ambulatory Executive Medical Director and helps support the diverse Divisions, Faculty and staff of OB/GYN and Reproductive Sciences in the outpatient setting. Every day, she works alongside an amazing administrative dyad partner, Anais Ryken, who tirelessly strives to improve our services, safety and patient experience, but more importantly, shares the same passion for Women's Health and the ever-growing patient population we serve.

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January 2022 Spotlight

Carolyn Sangokoya, MD, PhD

Adjunct Instructor, School of Medicine, Pathology

Dr. Carolyn Sangokoya is an inspiration to many other women physician scientists at UCSF. She recently completed residency and fellowship training in Anatomic Pathology, with specialization in liver pathology, and is now a senior postdoctoral fellow with Dr. Robert Blelloch at the Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research at UCSF. In lab, she is developing tools to study and functionally dissect the roles of post-transcriptional regulation in pluripotent stem cell biology and cell fate decisions. Dr. Sangokoya founded the UCSF Women Physician-Scientists Supergroup in the past year, a cross-departmental group of innovative interdisciplinary women physician-scientists breaking barriers to bridge science and medicine. She single-handedly recruited and organized a group of trainees and faculty spanning many different divisions and departments and brought them together to innovate solutions to foster career development for those in the unique physician scientist pathway. She then demonstrated her leadership by advocating on behalf of women physician scientists to administration, particularly important during the pandemic when women's careers are being disproportionately affected. She is clearly demonstrating her own leadership skills and the determination to lift up other women.

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December 2021 Spotlight

Kim LaPean

Communication and Engagement Manager, Office of the Senior Vice Chancellor 

Kim is an ally for all women of color. She always advocates for those who are not typically seen or heard. She makes space for women of color and sponsors us when we are not in the room. 

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December 2021 Spotlight

Iris Otani, MD

Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy, and Sleep Medicine 

Iris is a remarkable mentor and force for improvement in our clinic and fellowship. She is generous in identifying opportunities for fellows to grow and projects to join, while balancing their wellness and helping them stay true to their own career goals. 

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November 2021 Spotlight

Jan Yeager

Human Factor Designer, Clinical Innovation Center

In her role as a service designer, she introduced human-centered design (HCD) methods and tools into engagements with clinical teams. She supports their mission to build internal capacity through education and coaching on this subject matter. She developed a human-centered design course that is running this fall as an elective in the Implementation Science program.

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November 2021 Spotlight

Amanda Yeaton-Massey, MD

Assistant Professor, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Amanda is absolutely committed to maternal mental health and builds strong partnerships across psychiatry, OB, and the community. She is amazing.

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October 2021 Spotlight

Deborah Collins

Project Manager and Senior Clinical Analyst, Department of Pediatric Cardiology

Deborah has been in the medical field for 12 years where her passion for patient advocacy and health equity is the driving force of her life work. She encourages openness and authenticity to communicate our struggles and collectively heal and progress. Deborah also serves on the Social Justice Committee for the UCSF Black Caucus.

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October 2021 Spotlight

Jeanne Noble, MD

Associate Professor, Emergency Medicine

Jeanne was recognized last year by the American College of Emergency Physicians with the National Emergency Medicine Excellence in Bedside Teaching Award - one of only 2 faculty in the country to receive this award.

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August 2021 Spotlight

Kristie White, MD

Medical Director, Clinical Laboratory, Hematopathologist and Residency Program Director, Clinical Pathology

Kristie started her journey at UCSF as a student 18 years ago. She has been described as an outstanding mentor and leader in the Laboratory Medicine department.

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July 2021 Spotlight

Alleysha Mullen

Consultant, Learning & Organizational Devleopment

Alleysha is a strength-orientated coach, speaker, and facilitator. As a consultant for Learning & Organizational Development, Alleysha is devoted to unlocking potential.

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June 2021 Spotlight

Julie Nguyen, PharmD

Patient Safety Clinical Specialist, Department of Quality and Patient Safety, UCSF Health 

Julie has been with UCSF for 6 years in the Department of Quality and Patient Safety.  Her collegues describe her as positive, collaborative and committed to excellence.  

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