Kenneth Bean was nominated for his exceptional dedication to the emergency department, where his meticulous care and pride in his work created a welcoming and comforting environment for both patients and staff. His attention to detail—symbolized by his signature room setups—consistently elevated the standard of care and made a lasting impression on everyone who worked with him. Ken’s legacy of excellence, warmth, and reliability will continue to inspire his colleagues long after his departure.

Sonia Fierro was nominated for her unwavering dedication, meticulous attention to detail, and the deep compassion she brings to her role, making her the indispensable backbone of the Neuro ICU. From managing complex payroll for over 100 nurses to ensuring patients receive lost belongings and staff have the supplies and support they need, Sonia handles every task—big or small—with care, professionalism, and kindness. Her behind-the-scenes efforts foster a supportive, smooth-running environment that allows nurses to focus on patient care, making her an irreplaceable and deeply valued member of the team.

Julia Galeota was nominated for their exceptional dedication as a Heart Transplant/LVAD Clinical Social Worker, where they consistently go above and beyond to support some of UCSF’s most vulnerable and medically complex patients. Despite an intense and growing workload, they remain a tireless patient advocate, solving complex psychosocial challenges that impact access to life-saving therapies, often within hours. Julia’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning, including their selection as a 2025 Evidence-Based Practice Fellow, reflects their deep impact on patient care and the UCSF community.

Darcy McCarty was nominated for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity, respect, and excellence within UCSF. As Director of the Vascular Access Team and Central Telemetry Services, he has improved patient care, advanced staff education, and created a more supportive and welcoming environment for staff and patients. Darcy’s dedication to diversity, mentorship, and excellence—along with his active role in organizing the UCSF Vascular Access Symposium—has had a lasting, positive impact on the UCSF community.

Karla Molina was nominated for her vital role in launching the new Bayfront clinics, where her positivity, creativity, and dedication have significantly improved patient care and team collaboration. She is known for stepping up without hesitation, supporting both patients and colleagues with kindness, professionalism, and reliability. Karla’s impact is felt across the clinic—from her thoughtful patient interactions to her leadership during key moments—making her an invaluable part of the team.

Amanda Schantz was nominated for her extraordinary ability to deliver compassionate, patient-centered care that embodies the true spirit of nursing and UCSF’s PRIDE values. She goes beyond clinical excellence, forming deep, meaningful connections with patients and families—offering comfort, dignity, and strength in their most vulnerable moments. Amanda’s presence transforms the care experience, making UCSF not just a place of treatment, but a place of healing, hope, and human connection.

Carlos Skidmore was nominated for his exceptional professionalism, integrity, and unwavering dedication to staff and patient support at the Acute Ambulatory Care Center at UCSF. Known for his calm leadership in high-pressure situations, such as code blue and code red events, Carlos consistently ensures safety, clear communication, and efficient coordination. His warm, respectful, and inclusive approach fosters a welcoming environment, making him a trusted and valued presence among patients, colleagues, and visitors alike.

Dr. Straessler was nominated for her exceptional dedication to patient care, her compassionate leadership across UCSF campuses, and her innovative efforts to improve the treatment experience—most notably through creating toy models of radiation machines to ease anxiety in pediatric patients. Balancing her roles as a clinician, researcher, and mother of four, she exemplifies UCSF’s values of excellence, empathy, and integrity in both her professional and personal life. Her thoughtful, holistic approach to care not only elevates the patient experience but also inspires colleagues across disciplines.

The Transitional Care team was nominated for exemplifying UCSF’s PRIDE values through their exceptional coordination, compassion, and advocacy in supporting a medically complex patient’s goal to remain with family and avoid institutionalization. Their interdisciplinary collaboration ensured dignified, patient-centered care that respected the patient’s autonomy, cultural background, and personal wishes. By arranging short-term home support, air transport, and relocation logistics, the team delivered an unparalleled level of service that profoundly improved the patient’s quality of life and set a standard for excellence in transitional care.

Team Members: Kaitlin Dicks, Kelley Ogami, Misti Meador

The Pediatric Cardiac Transitional Care Unit (CTCU) was nominated for their extraordinary resilience, adaptability, and commitment to patient-centered care, especially during the pandemic when they enabled a major expansion of the Pediatric Heart Center and helped lay the foundation for UCSF's pediatric heart transplant program. Their clinical excellence is evidenced by achieving exceptional patient safety milestones, pioneering cardiac rapid response systems, and consistently supporting the broader hospital beyond their specialty. With advanced expertise in managing complex therapies and providing care across the lifespan, the CTCU has become an indispensable part of UCSF’s healthcare mission.

Team Members: Victoria Afor, Alexis Aragon, Jennifer Alba, Vince Alba, Erin Alexander, Alex Alonzo, Karina Austreich, Warren Bailey, Lucier Brooke, Vina Cabungan, Melva Carvajal-Mejia, Lauren Chao, Maggie Chen, Charles Deatherage, Luke Dunham, Jennifer Enerio-Herren, Lori Fineman, Jel Gacula-Ordaz, Raquel Gibson-Starks, Nancy Hernandez, Vanessa Hernandez, Stephanie Jimenez, Pearl Liblin, Jenny Lin, Wendy Lin, Erin Livingston, Alicia Lopez, Lai Meek, Candis Mondfrans, Andrea Moscatelli, Leah Mousa, Chris Natividad, Kim Noh, Betzany Ortiz, Lindsay Parscal, Marin Pasieka, Charlyn Ramos, Alice Rich, Brianna Rogo, Ruthie Roth, Lyn Salcedo, Drea Sanders, Amanda Schantz, Kristy Serrato, Kelly Spina, Paige Strehl, Candance Suen, Tritia Tajima, Ronn Tanel, Kennedy Torio, Lisa Ty, Cheri Wollack

Hannah Bichkoff was nominated for her extraordinary dedication and excellence as a social worker on the Pediatric Heart Failure Team. She goes above and beyond to support complex patients and families, providing vital resources, and emotional support, and ensuring a smooth transition from hospital to home. Her unwavering commitment to equity, advocacy, and creating a safe, inclusive environment for both patients and their families makes her an invaluable team member.

Sarah Francke was nominated for her exceptional leadership and professionalism. She has demonstrated outstanding contributions in her clinical educator role, building strong interprofessional relationships, enhancing workflows, and improving patient care while earning the respect of both colleagues and patients. Her dedication to integrity, diversity, and excellence in nursing, as well as her drive for continuous learning, makes Sarah an inspiring role model and an invaluable asset to the team.

Marilyn Galleing was nominated for her exceptional dedication to patient care and her embodiment of UCSF’s PRIDE values. Her unparalleled work ethic, proactive approach, and strong network across various departments make her an invaluable asset to the Neuro Stepdown Unit, often coordinating supplies and equipment, and ensuring smooth patient flow. Marilyn's quick thinking during urgent situations, such as securing critical equipment in moments of shortage, showcases her commitment to excellence and her ability to collaborate effectively for the safety and well-being of patients.

Michael Li was nominated for his exceptional dedication to patient care. His professionalism, respect, and commitment to excellence are evident in his willingness to go above and beyond—whether it's staying late to assist patients or calmly handling last-minute schedule changes with empathy. Michael’s reliability, attentiveness, and personal growth have made him an invaluable team member who continuously enhances the quality of care and patient experience.

Regina McMillian was nominated for her exceptional ability to maintain safety and calm in high-pressure situations, demonstrating professionalism, respect, and integrity in every aspect of her role as a Security Officer at Langley Porter Hospital. She consistently de-escalates challenging situations with empathy and clear communication, ensuring the well-being of both patients and staff. Regina’s commitment to excellence, crisis prevention, and fostering an inclusive, supportive environment makes her an invaluable asset to the team and a true embodiment of UCSF's PRIDE values.

Nihari Patel was nominated for her outstanding leadership and embodiment of UCSF’s PRIDE values in every aspect of her work. She demonstrated professionalism in streamlining workflows and improving patient care, while fostering respect, integrity, and inclusivity through her collaborative leadership and data-driven approach. Her commitment to excellence, diversity, and the well-being of staff and patients at the Cancer Center makes her a true role model and catalyst for positive change.

Dr. Michael Rabow was nominated for his exceptional ability to support and elevate those around him, whether patients, colleagues, or staff. His genuine care and advocacy for inclusivity and respect shine through in his interactions, whether he's guiding patients through difficult discussions or mentoring colleagues. Mike's authenticity, wisdom, and generous nature embody the full spectrum of UCSF's PRIDE values, making him an invaluable asset to the team and a true champion of those he serves.

Anais Ryken is an exceptional leader who embodies UCSF's PRIDE values everyday, especially in her role as the leader of Women's Health. She goes above and beyond to support her team, prioritizing staff recognition and creating a positive work environment, even in challenging times. Anais’ dedication to fostering collaboration, boosting morale, and empowering her team has led to improved engagement and patient satisfaction, making her an invaluable asset to the department and an inspiring role model.

The Diabetes Collaborative Care (DCC) program at UCSF was nominated for its innovative, patient-centered approach to diabetes care, integrating specialty care into a nurse-led interdisciplinary team. Focused on health equity, the program targets high-risk populations, such as Latinx and Black patients, addressing disparities through culturally sensitive care, tailored health coaching, and close coordination between primary and specialty care providers. In its first year, the program achieved impressive outcomes, including a significant reduction in A1c levels and a 30.9% enrollment rate, while also offering crucial support services like food insecurity screenings and access to Continuous Glucose Monitors.

Chris Cadwell was nominated for his exemplary commitment to PRIDE values. He was the driving force behind Uro Surg's Contact Center implementation and has set a high standard for leadership and fostered a culture of collaboration within the team. His significant contributions to the Access Transformation initiative for Cancer demonstrated his dedication to improving patient care and supporting his colleagues across various departments. Chris's positive demeanor, exceptional mentorship, and commitment to inclusivity make him a vital asset to UCSF Health.

Fred Chang was nominated by multiple nurses on C6 Pediatric Heme/Onc/BMT for his embodiment of UCSF's PRIDE values. As a chemotherapy specialty pharmacist, Fred consistently demonstrates a positive collaboration and a supportive environment in a challenging role. His proactive communication and genuine kindness not only ease the complexities of chemotherapy coordination but also inspire his colleagues to strive for the highest standards of care.

Dr. Yaron Gesthalter was nominated for his remarkable efforts in advancing the Interventional Pulmonary department and his unwavering commitment to patient care. As a visionary physician, he has significantly expanded the program, developed a pleural clinic to keep patients out of the hospital, and helped establish a valve program, all while providing compassionate care that addresses both physical and emotional needs. Dr. Gesthalter’s exceptional bedside manner and genuine concern for his patients create lasting impacts, fostering trust and support throughout their medical journeys.

Charlo Haro was nominated as he is highly respected and reliable across the clinic. He goes above and beyond in his role, coordinating care for post-COVID/post-ICU clinic with grace and compassion, ensuring that patients feel heard and supported. His dedication to patient care and exceptional communication skills have made him an invaluable asset to his team.

Katie Jackson was nominated for taking on a crucial role, as unit educator for the MB ED, that encompasses onboarding, regulatory compliance, and professional development, all while continuing her work as a bedside nurse. Her positive attitude and innovative approach shine through, particularly in her creatively themed annual skills validation event, which kept nurses engaged and enthusiastic. Katie exemplifies the PRIDE values of UCSF through her professionalism, respect for others, integrity, and commitment to excellence, making her a truly invaluable member of the team.

Keisha Porche was nominated for her exemplary leadership as a team lead at UCSF cohort 6, where she consistently demonstrates dedication and commitment to her team’s success. As a patient and professional preceptor, she fosters a collaborative environment and shows compassion for both patients and colleagues, guiding them through the cohort facilitator/practice coordinator. Keisha's problem-solving skills, effective communication, and unwavering support for her team make her a highly respected and invaluable asset to UCSF Health.

Korin Schmitz was nominated for her passionate advocacy and instrumental leadership in building a supportive community for women at UCSF Health, where she sits as Co-Chair of the Women of UCSF Health. Since the inception of the Women of UCSF Health in 2018, Korin has organized impactful events that empower women, promote inclusivity, and elevate awareness of critical issues in leadership and gender equity. Her unwavering commitment and ability to inspire others embody the PRIDE values, making her a remarkable leader and a true asset to UCSF Health.

Zhen Zhu was nominated for her exceptional performance as a patient transporter, exemplifying professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity, and excellence in her role. Jessica's commitment to patient safety, compassionate care, and ability to connect with patients from diverse backgrounds set a high standard for her colleagues. Her outstanding dedication and meaningful gestures make her an invaluable asset to her team.

The Benioff Children's Hospitals Cross Bay Neuro-Oncology Team was nominated for their exceptional care and commitment to pediatric patients with nervous system tumors. The team exemplifies all PRIDE values: they are professional, respectful, and compassionate, skillfully navigating the emotional toll of their work while fighting tirelessly for their patients and families. Their dedication is further demonstrated by their leadership in the Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium (PNOC), driving innovative clinical trials to provide hope and improved outcomes for children around the world facing this devastating diagnosis.

TEAM MEMBER NAMES: 

Camille Avila-DaRosa, Tia Anderson, Kurtis Auguste, Randy Bain, Anu Banerjee, Carolina Bastos, Samuel Chong, Crystalyn Cruz, Renato Cuenco, Matthew Decker, Nicole Elzie-Tuttle,  Caroline Farless, Lea Fox, Alexis Garcia, Kristen Ghoussaini, Nalin Gupta, Eileen Gutierrez, Lakesha Harris, Caroline Hastings, Melessa Hirschorn, Alexandra Ho, Winson Ho, Carly Hoffman, Maria Hong, Elizabeth Horan, Jay Hunter, Marie Jaeger-Kause, Anna Jesena, Dora Kaywood, Marina Khamhaengwong, Allie Kirby, Truman Knowles, Emani Lee, Hyunju Lee, Robert Lindquist, Marcela Maldondo-Mora, Rosemary Maquiling, Catalily Marshall, Kristin Matulich, Ryan Moon, Kim  Mooradian, Sabine Mueller, Jennifer Murphy, Brian Na, Greta Peng, Van Phuoc, Bo Qiu, Shannon Raber, Alyssa Reddy, Jodi-Ann Sampson-Simon, Sarah Schleimer, Rebecca Silvers, Peter Sun, Molly Szuminski, Nancy Valdez, Carla Vega, Denisha Wagner-Perry, Indigo Webley, Ronika Williams, Karina Wong

Jennifer Anaya was nominated for her ability to recognize staff in a way that lifts them up and makes them feel seen and heard. She embodies ALL of the PRIDE values, but Excellence is at the forefront of everything Jen does in our unit. She is so consistent in her approach to how she manages difficult situations and is always looking for ways to make the PICU more positive.

Christine Kim was nominated for her kind approach to her patients and colleagues. She has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to creating an optimal work experience for colleagues and a remarkable experience for patients and their families. Her dedication and passion have elevated the institution's standards and profoundly touched the lives of those she interacts with.

Tess Klein was nominated for her patience and for going above and beyond to help patients as much as possible to be seen at the clinic. She makes every effort to get patients in as soon as possible. She often gets calls from anxious patients each week hoping for a sooner appointment and handles these calls with empathy and compassion. 

Dr. Alexander Lam was nominated for his dedication to the PRIDE values through his outstanding contributions to patient care. He is precise and ensures that every detail is considered and shared directly with the patient.

Manny Olla was nominated for his dedication and exceptional contributions in supporting the UCSF Health mission and values across multiple departments by resolving crucial supply issues that had impacted patient care. Manny's kindness and approachability transcend professional interactions, earning him the respect and appreciation of colleagues and staff. He treats everyone with a level of respect that fosters collaboration and strengthens the team's spirit.

Christian Peralta was nominated for his outstanding help, collaboration, and support during the Optum RTE restoration. He volunteered and worked outside of his normal work hours to ensure the RTE Connections were completed promptly. He has a vast domain of knowledge that spans medical billing, Epic, programming, and computer networking and is always willing to share his knowledge with others.

Chris Pollak was nominated for her kind spirit, genuine care, and for creating an environment where her colleagues feel comfortable approaching her with anything. Her positive, can-do attitude is seen and felt throughout the department daily. Chris involves staff in the decision-making processes that involve them, which fosters employees' high motivation and sense of belonging. 

Tiffany Raffino was nominated for organizing the UCSF Cystic Fibrosis Community Picnic and ensuring that infection control and patient logistics were meticulously handled. Her exceptional leadership and attention to detail, including creating a diverse community banner and overseeing a heartwarming kite-flying activity, made the event a memorable and joyful experience for all involved.

The Adult Vascular Access Specialty Team (VAST) was nominated for their commitment to their craft and continuously striving to improve their practices. The VAST comprehensively reviews a patient’s chart, assesses each patient’s medical needs to tailor their recommendation, proactively communicates with the primary team to address nuances, and always treats each patient and family respectfully and professionally when performing their procedures.

Fatima Alegado was nominated by consistently going above and beyond for every patient without regard for their race, gender, identity, or background. She has been recognized by her peers, the physicians in her practice, and executive leadership for her dedication, passion, and professionalism. Patients who have come from far away and from underserved areas have expressed how she treats them as family. Fatima ensures patient care is seamlessly coordinated, which is not gone without notice by our cancer patients.

Eric Chen was nominated for his involvement in the Credentials Verification Organization (CVO) agreement that was executed between UCSF and BCH Oakland. Eric’s invaluable efforts in helping launch the CVO agreement have fruitfully digitized the BCH Oakland credentialing application and privilege forms and synced them into Echo, TaskMaster, and UC Me, a credentialing application platform - leading to quicker onboarding times for new UCSF and BCH Oakland physicians and APPs.

Jackeline Huizar was nominated for consistently going above and beyond for her team, ensuring that the clinic runs smoothly and safely. Jackeline's leadership is intentional, strategic, and follows a structured approach that allows her to manage the fluid complexities of the floor more efficiently. She has quarterbacked several successful clinic surveys, and she is known to “step-up” on the floor with her team, covering breaks and lunches, taking patient vitals, and turning over rooms, especially on the busy days.

Dr. Katie Kelley was nominated for her dedication to patient care. Dr. Kelley organizes comprehensive treatment plans ensuring that every aspect of her patient's care and well-being is addressed and communicated to the patient's family. Dr. Kelley not only embodies professionalism in her care of her patients but does it with respect and integrity in that she instills confidence in the course of treatment and shows kindness and consideration for the emotional journey of patients and their families, all the while prioritizing well-being.

Tawnya Napoli was nominated for facilitating the Palliative Care Resource Nurse group, coaching palliative care skills, and mentoring many nurses to obtain national hospice and palliative care certification. She leads the Medical Cannabis Compassionate Use program so patients with terminal illness can manage their symptoms in the hospital. Tawnya inspires through her expert practice which is professional and exemplifies respect, dignity, and compassionate care at the highest level.

Christopher Pak was nominated for exemplifying the core values of UCSF Health every day through his unwavering commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, and excellence. His dedication to his work on the evening shift has not only made a significant impact on our team but has also consistently elevated the standard of care we provide to our patients. He approaches each task with meticulous attention to detail and a strong sense of responsibility. His professionalism is evident in his communication with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals, always maintaining a positive attitude and fostering a collaborative environment.

Gail Seche was nominated for successfully reorganizing formula and donor milk operations and bringing a new formula room to BCH Oakland. The most fragile patients come to BCH Oakland for care, and they often need specialized formulas that must be accurately prepared and stored with the highest regard to safety and sanitation. By creatively using space and resources, Gail was able to improve patient safety, efficiency, customer service and employee satisfaction. In addition, she was instrumental in helping navigate the national formula crisis during the pandemic. 

Lisa Wiley was nominated for her dedication to service, prudent thinking and most of all her workplace agility she able to accomplish many goals. She collaborates and bridges the gap between UCSF and external business partners where she often goes out of her way to share information, source material and direct teams to the correct business owners so projects and work moves along. This alone gives everyone she interacts with peace of mind that business needs are met.

The Advanced Heart Failure Comprehensive Care Center Team was nominated for changing heart failure care for local and regional communities. Over the last two years, the AHF CCC has had significant growth. The heart failure disease management population is now over 1,200 patients. The team has grown from a heart transplant program that typically performed 20 transplants per year, to now being a center who performs ~80 per year. The team has also worked tirelessly to ensure that quality outcomes are maintained. According to US News and World Report, UCSF is now rated "high Performing" in heart failure. The team has the largest volume of VA ECMO for cardiogenic shock in the Western U.S. (top 10 in the U.S.) and is the 8th largest HeartMate 3 LVAD implant in the Western U.S. in 2023 (26 programs).

Christina Bronsky was nominated for her leadership in diversity and inclusion and her dedication, commitment an,d support as a manager. She is constantly looking for ways to develop herself and her skills including being a member of the IT Leadership Development and Clinical Systems Development committees. She also looks for ways to support and grow our teams on those committees so we have a competent, skilled, and happy workforce. In those committees, Christina has mentored and guided her colleagues through various projects that benefit the organization and grow the skills of each individual.

Emily Brumsted was nominated for her unwavering commitment to fostering teamwork through a compassionate and personalized approach. Her dedication extends beyond conventional, consistently going above and beyond to ensure the provision of optimal care for our patients. Through collaborative endeavors within our team, Emily has expanded the knowledge base of her esteemed colleagues and played a pivotal role in cultivating diversity of perspective and upholding integrity in the department's scientific pursuits. 

Colleen Clifford was nominated for her compassion, kindness, and thoughtfulness, and her empathetic heart. She is attuned to the staff’s well-being and suffering and has grown to be a pillar of support for nurses. Colleen has never hesitated to go the extra mile to help those in need. She noticed that nurses were not aware when their colleagues were on leave for maternity, disability, bereavement, or other reasons. To help create connections and provide support for her peers, she created a system whereby staff can write a personal message on a card to the person on leave. Through the creation and on-going efforts of this project, Colleen has brought awareness, recognition, and compassion to her work community.

Claudia Elena Farris was nominated for the warmth and kindness that she provides to the patients in the clinic on a daily basis. She remembers their names and listens to their stories. Being bilingual, she offers another level of comfort and culturally competent care to our Spanish-speaking patients. Claudia keeps the clinic running like clockwork, maintaining key operational items, and holds many responsibilities. 

Dr. Tushani Illangasekare was nominated for her grace and compassion. Dr. Illangasekare is the quiet deep inner strength at the Center for Pregnancy Options. She is never loud or presumptuous and she always shows up with kindness and grace. Dr. Illangasekare gives superior care to all her patients and her superpower is the way she can make things happen in a crisis. She supports her teammates and will do so with a smile. 

Samantha Kahn was nominated for her leadership in managing the cancer contact center spread has been inspiring. Her smart decision-making, capability, and humble leadership style are making a positive impact on her team and, ultimately, the success of the cancer center rollout. Samantha approaches challenges with an open mind, actively seeking feedback and opportunities to learn and grow. Her humility, combined with a genuine desire to contribute to the greater good, makes her a role model for others in the team.

Freddie Lopez was nominated for being a diligent team member and for his excellent rapport with patients. Freddie's main focus is as part of the Primary Care Services Hypertension Pharmacy Program, which involves collaborating with an advanced practice pharmacist to follow patients longitudinally to improve health outcomes. He goes above and beyond for his patients. 

Fred Mejia was nominated for his resourcefulness and collaborativeness. He is always looking for ways to improve systems. Fred has been a stalwart during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the health system is supplied with PPE, testing supplies, and all the other supplies that have been constrained due to global supply chain shortages. Most recently, Fred has partnered with Periop to improve the distribution of pacemaker boxes, which has placed these items closer to the patient and improved patient care.

The APP Onboarding Committee was nominated for volunteering their time and energy to support their peers because they truly want Our People (the newly hired NPs and PAs) to have the best work experience. The committee members developed a 5-month structured onboarding program that provides standardized information about organizational resources, clinical expectations about clinical documentation integrity, self-coding, and professional development opportunities. The information is presented live (via zoom) by peers, for peers. Since 2017, over 300 APPs have completed the program.

Laurel Bray-Hanin was nominated for her unwavering commitment and integrity in her role. Her professionalism, respect for others, and dedication to excellence have been evident in fostering a thriving environment for nurse educators, driving high-level initiatives, and setting exemplary standards within the Cancer Services team. Laurel's relentless dedication to professionalism is reflected in her outstanding support for the growth of the nurse educator/NPD team, creating an environment that encourages personal and professional growth. Her leadership has been pivotal in inspiring the team to provide the best care to both patients and themselves.

Vivienne Carlsen was nominated for her outstanding dedication and contributions as the interim Clinic Manager for the Center for Pregnancy Options. Vivienne tirelessly advocates for and attends to patients' needs, assuming multifaceted roles to provide extensive support, counsel, and care. Her proficiency spans healthcare, counseling, administrative duties, ultrasound guidance, and patient advocacy, earning heartfelt appreciation from countless patients for her compassionate and thorough approach. Amid challenging circumstances, including changes in abortion laws and staffing crises, Vivienne's leadership and adaptability were instrumental in ensuring continued patient care while initiating improvements in access and training within the center. 

Jessica Floyd was nominated for her exceptional contributions to the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, particularly within the UCSF Center for ASD and NDDs, significantly improving patient care and advancing the program's mission. Despite joining during the pandemic, her adaptability, problem-solving skills, and innovative thinking were evident, leading to remarkable outcomes in patient access and clinic efficiency. Through her leadership, strategic planning, and coordination, Jessica orchestrated successful launches of new therapy groups, positively impacting the lives of many children and families while demonstrating unwavering commitment to excellence and PRIDE values. 

Art Luna was nominated for consistently exemplifying the PRIDE Values in interactions with staff, colleagues, and patients. Throughout the challenges posed by the pandemic, Art's calm and professional leadership guided the Mission Bay Hospitality Services team, fostering a safe and expert environment. His unwavering commitment to excellence has been evident, ensuring a focus on delivering exceptional service even in unprecedented circumstances. His leadership, recognized as that of a boss, mentor, and leader, reflects the deep respect and admiration felt by those who work alongside him.

Karen Monterroso was nominated for her dedication to Pediatric Surgical Specialties, showcasing strengths in attention to detail, commitment to Quality Improvement, and resilience. Her proactive approach and strong relationships with Pediatric Plastic Surgery providers have enhanced her clinical knowledge and ensured excellent patient experiences. Despite challenges, Karen's professionalism, grace, and ability to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth have been invaluable, contributing to a calmer and more organized clinic environment. Her meticulous nature and foresight in anticipating needs have made her an invaluable asset, demonstrating her commitment to elevating the clinic's standards and embodying PRIDE values daily.

Annie Phung was nominated for her exceptional contributions, particularly in managing the Marin Project, with meticulous attention and dedication. She single-handedly oversaw the provisioning of nearly 3500 end users, creating new templates and coordinating security measures, displaying an unparalleled work ethic and commitment. Her proactive and detail-oriented approach, professionalism, and unwavering dedication embody the PRIDE values at UCSF.

Long Vo was nominated for his unwavering dedication to patients is evident in his tireless efforts to navigate complex insurance issues, ensuring access to life-saving therapies, resulting in reduced hospitalizations and improved patient outcomes. Highly praised by medical staff for his relentless advocacy and innovative problem-solving. Long's positive attitude and cheerful demeanor shine through, significantly impacting patient care and the clinic's success.

Dr. Matthew Zapala was nominated for his expertise in Pediatric Musculoskeletal Radiology and has significantly impacted diagnoses and treatments for pediatric patients, earning high regard among orthopedic colleagues. Dr. Zapala's innovative initiatives, such as utilizing 3D printing for pre-surgical assessments, have been nationally recognized and published, enhancing care standards. Additionally, his role in spearheading a multi-disciplinary pediatric bone case conference demonstrates his commitment to collaborative care.

The Clinical Lab Microbiology Department was nominated for their extraordinary efforts since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. With over 612,000 COVID tests performed, their dedication impacted patient care and surveillance across various populations in California. Overcoming challenges such as staff shortages, accelerated timelines for testing implementation, and supply chain issues, the team worked tirelessly as unsung heroes behind the scenes, ensuring swift and accurate testing that prevented potential delays in patient care. The team manages various crucial tests, from blood cultures to MRSA surveillance, exhibiting an unwavering dedication to patient care and contributing significantly to UCSF's healthcare efforts.

Cindy Collinson was nominated for her exceptional contributions to nursing education of new hires and existing nurses, reflecting her commitment to excellence. Through her transformation of Annual Skills Day into a mandatory event, she ensures comprehensive education for all NICU staff, fostering collective growth. Her innovative introduction of the ELEMENO education platform has enhanced communication and education within the unit.

Mark Dorshkind was nominated for his management of funds flow and agreements between the School of Medicine and UCSF Health. Managing transactions nearing a billion dollars annually, he played a pivotal role in reviewing and restructuring the entire agreement, leading intensive sessions, and creating a comprehensive model that integrated recommendations from the project sponsor group.

Vicki Jue was nominated for her exceptional commitment and expertise in patient care. Her dedication shines through her meticulous attention to every patient's medication needs, irrespective of size, as well as her outstanding communication skills with patients and colleagues. She deftly navigates complex insurance arrangements, ensuring uninterrupted therapies, and her resourcefulness in finding solutions to challenging situations is admired by all.

Mercedes Lincoln was nominated for her professionalism and excellence in her role. As a vital point of contact in emergency situations, she skillfully guides callers with clarity and precision, ensuring their safety through detailed instructions. Her commitment to fostering a supportive and cohesive department is underscored through her role in training new Communications Technicians.

Andréa Mejía was nominated for her commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and unwavering support of the Cancer Center. With a commitment to fairness and consistency, she skillfully onboards new talent, setting the tone for their UCSF experience. Beyond supporting staff, Andréa is a go-to resource for leaders, providing guidance on various aspects.

Dr. David Shimabukuro was nominated for his exceptional leadership as the Medical Director of the Sepsis Project. His thoughtful approach and inclusive attitude have driven the project's growth, resulting in improved patient outcomes and meeting True North  Goals. His support for frontline staff, dedication to problem-solving, collaboration with various teams, and respectful consultation on challenging patient cases have made him an invaluable asset. 

Jose Terrones was nominated for his exceptional qualities of dependability, selflessness, and sincere integrity. His dedication to frontline tasks and compliance standards showcases his commitment to safety and well-being. His collaborative efforts in process improvement and his calm demeanor when interacting with patients have garnered respect and appreciation from colleagues and supervisors alike.

Lupe Varela was nominated for her compassionate care for patients, willingness to support her team, and unwavering commitment to integrity. Lupe's strong work ethic is evident in her reliability, willingness to assist beyond her duties, and her concurrent pursuit of a nursing degree. Her humble and empathetic nature, coupled with her commitment to both patients and her career, truly make her deserving of this award.

The UCSF Care at Home team was nominated for their exceptional approach to patient care. They have a deep understanding of their patients' unique needs and backgrounds, enhancing comprehensive healthcare. The team's commitment to excellence shines through collaborative efforts, advocacy, and supportive leadership, even during difficult times. Their impact is evident in exceeding targets for flu vaccination rates, fostering a positive work culture, achieving favorable patient utilization and admission outcomes.

Jamie Cohen, PsyD, was nominated for her remarkable contributions in transforming survivorship care at the Cancer Center. She pioneered the Survivorship Wellness program, providing comprehensive support to cancer survivors. Her dedication and expertise have made it a model of evidence-based psychosocial care. Jamie's selflessness extends to mentoring colleagues and sharing her wisdom, making a profound impact on countless lives.

Camila Cribb Fabersunne, MD, MPH, was nominated for her exceptional dedication to advocacy and trauma-informed care for a frightened patient. She dedicated the time needed to deescalate a tense situation and worked collaboratively with the medical team to create a safe space for the patient, along with a respectful plan of care. Her compassionate approach emphasized cultural sensitivity in providing treatment to patients from diverse backgrounds.

James Darby, Jr. was nominated for his extraordinary mentorship, leadership, and unwavering support as a colleague. He exemplifies the PRIDE Values through his dedication to excellence and genuine care for others. James actively shares best practices, presents innovative ideas, and provides invaluable guidance to his colleagues. His inspiring leadership and kindness make a significant impact on those around him.

Sarah Earley was nominated for her role on the Marin Hospital Project, ensuring smooth implementation of the APeX system. She effectively facilitated collaboration, patiently explained complex concepts, and demonstrated relentless follow-through. Sarah fostered an inclusive and supportive environment, sharing knowledge and encouraging productive discussions. Her exceptional skills and dedication make her deserving of recognition.

Liz Garduño was nominated for consistently going above and beyond to support her team and creating a positive work environment. Her demonstration of our PRIDE Values are evident in her ability to handle increased responsibilities and in her interactions with colleagues and patients alike. Liz's guidance and support have made a significant impact on her team's success, making her an invaluable team member.

Consuelo (Chachi) Mesta was nominated for her steadfast dedication and positive impact as a member of the BCH Mission Bay Pediatrics OHNS Family by creating a welcoming and cheerful atmosphere. Chachi's tireless advocacy for vulnerable patients, professionalism, and empathy make her a reliable and go-to team member for providers. Her warm compassion and ability to connect with families leave a lasting impression, making her a cornerstone of the BCH Peds OHNS Care Team.

Stephen Ngo was nominated for his exceptional talent, strong work ethic, and tireless dedication. Stephen consistently elevates the department and improves the experiences of those around him. His timely and efficient supply management, even during challenging times, ensured uninterrupted patient care. Stephen's selfless nature, adaptability, and positive attitude make him a key team player.

Jill Obata, MSN, RN, was nominated for her outstanding care and transformative leadership. Through the Cystic Fibrosis Lung Transplant Transition Learning and Leadership Collaborative, she organized acclaimed onsite and virtual events, inspiring nationwide praise. Jill's dedication extends to staff engagement projects, education, and fostering a vibrant transplant community. Her firm commitment elevates the UCSF Lung Transplant Program and influences the field of transplantation.

The Pharmaceutical Services Department's Diversion Prevention Team was nominated for their exceptional contributions to patient safety and quality. They proactively addressed Oxycodone overdose errors, improving medication safety. Their efforts in product conversions reduced waste and expenses while ensuring compliance. The team's professionalism, equity focus, and effective communication strengthened collaborations with nurse managers and other departments. Their establishment of a compliant system for controlled substance disposal showcases their commitment to regulatory adherence and patient well-being.