What inspired you to work in health and human services?

A deep desire to make a difference in the world we live in.

Tell us about your very first job.

My first job was with a medical company in Silicon Valley, where I was part of an innovative startup that was later acquired by Johnson & Johnson. Being at the forefront of groundbreaking technology in the diabetic marketplace was an exhilarating and formative experience in my career.

What do you find most rewarding about your work now?

Making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families.

Tell us about your proudest moment—on or off the job.

One of my proudest moments was collaborating with the American Heart Association to raise awareness about women and heart disease in our community.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid, and why?

I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare in some capacity—I just wasn’t sure how.

What woman inspires you and why?

There are too many remarkable women to name.

Finish this sentence: I believe…

I believe we all have the power to make a difference.

What is the most exciting thing you and your organization accomplished this year?

We are driving our mission forward with a strong focus on the future.

Describe your perfect day.

A day spent making progress toward meaningful change, knowing that each step brings us closer to a brighter future.

Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.

I majored in Philosophy.

What inspired you to work in health and human services?

I am deeply committed to social justice and believe everyone deserves quality housing and healthcare. Early in my career, I saw how the lack of these essentials trapped individuals in cycles of poverty.

At Carrfour Supportive Housing, I witnessed the transformative power of integrating healthcare within supportive housing. Housing stability and access to healthcare are interconnected—without one, maintaining the other is nearly impossible. Carrfour’s holistic approach addresses housing, behavioral health, employment, and financial mobility, making a lasting impact on residents’ lives.

Tell us about your very first job.

As a high school summer counselor for Upward Bound, I worked with students from low-income families, exposing me to the deep inequalities in our community. This experience ignited my passion for social justice.

What do you find most rewarding about your work now?

Seeing lives transform through stability and support is incredibly fulfilling. At Carrfour, we do more than provide housing—we create communities where people heal, regain independence, and thrive.

Whether a veteran accesses much-needed healthcare, a single mother secures employment, or an individual overcomes mental health challenges, each success story reaffirms the power of compassionate, holistic support.

Tell us about your proudest moment—on or off the job.

One of my proudest moments was seeing a single mother, Alma, embrace her new home. She tearfully shared that her 11-year-old son had his first-ever playdate, something impossible while living in shelters. As a mother, I deeply understood the significance of that moment.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid, and why?

I dreamed of becoming a doctor, believing healing happened in hospitals. Over time, I realized true healing also happens in safe homes, strong communities, and through the support we provide one another. Housing is healthcare, community is medicine, and access to resources is the prescription for long-term well-being.

What woman inspires you and why?

Dr. Nadine Burke Harris inspires me. Her research on Adverse Childhood Experiences reshaped how we view trauma’s impact on long-term health. Beyond research, she has been a fierce advocate for integrating trauma-informed care into policy, ensuring healthcare, education, and social services work together to break cycles of generational trauma. Her dedication reinforces why I do this work.

Finish this sentence: I believe…

I believe housing is healthcare, and true wellness comes from stability, access to resources, and a nurturing community. No one should have to choose between a safe place to sleep and critical healthcare. When we provide the right support, people can heal and thrive. Most of all, I believe in people—their resilience, potential, and ability to build fulfilling lives when given the right tools.

What is the most exciting thing you and your organization accomplished this year?

Opening Southwest Hammocks in Pembroke Pines, a first-of-its-kind supportive housing community for individuals with significant mental health challenges, has been a milestone achievement.

A collaboration with partners like Footprint to Success Clubhouse, NAMI Broward, and Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, Southwest Hammocks offers more than housing—it provides on-site behavioral health services, peer support, employment training, and wellness programs. Residents, many of whom have cycled between homelessness and crisis intervention, finally have a stable home where they can heal, rebuild, and reclaim their lives.

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day begins with visiting residents in our housing communities, hearing their stories, and witnessing the impact of our work. It ends with my family—walking on the beach at sunset, sharing laughter, and enjoying the simple moments that bring joy. I also love exploring new places through travel.

Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.

Spanish was my first language, and I didn’t learn English until kindergarten. Though born in the U.S., my parents ensured my sister, and I spoke Spanish first, knowing we’d quickly pick up English in school. Being bilingual has been a lifelong gift I deeply appreciate.

What inspired you to work in community health/healthcare?

My parents inspired me to volunteer in the community. My mother worked with Centro Mater and Centro Hispano Católico, and both of my parents volunteered at La Liga Contra El Cáncer Telethon. Interning with Congressman Claude Pepper further fueled my passion for advocacy, leading me to a career dedicated to improving healthcare access and quality for vulnerable populations.

Tell us about your very first job.

My first job after high school was as a clerk, but my most impactful role was as a volunteer. Through United Way, I translated for Hispanic families at the Kidney Dialysis Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital, witnessing firsthand the struggles they faced in navigating the healthcare system. This experience led me to support senior refugees and help secure funding to establish the Little Havana Activities & Nutrition Centers in 1973, laying the foundation for my lifelong work in senior care. After that, President George W. Bush appointed me as the Assistant Secretary for Aging at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services from 2001 to 2009. In this role, I led the implementation of the National Family Caregiver Support Program and evidence-based chronic disease management programs, significantly improving support systems for caregivers and promoting healthier aging. 

What do you find most rewarding about your work now?

The most rewarding part of my work is seeing policies I once worked on implemented in real life. Having experience at the community, policy, and private sector levels, I’ve seen how fragmented healthcare can be. I’m passionate about integrating evidence-based programs—like chronic disease self-management and fall prevention—into communities, ensuring people receive the support they need to stay healthy.

Tell us about your proudest moment—on or off the job.

One of my proudest moments was helping implement Medicare Part D, which introduced prescription drug coverage to millions of seniors. We coordinated over 42,000 educational events nationwide to ensure seniors understood the new benefits and enrollment process. This initiative not only improved access to medication but also transformed Medicare, expanding preventive care and coverage options.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid, and why?

I was always drawn to older adults. While my mother focused on children’s programs, I volunteered at nursing homes, feeling a natural connection to seniors. That passion ultimately shaped my career in healthcare advocacy and senior services.

What woman inspires you and why?

I admire Mother Teresa for her relentless dedication to serving others. Her perseverance and determination inspire me—when someone says I can’t do something, I am driven to prove them wrong.

Finish this sentence: I believe…

I believe in integrating healthcare and long-term care services. Throughout my career, I’ve worked to bridge gaps between policy and real-world implementation, ensuring people receive comprehensive support beyond traditional medical care.

What is the most exciting thing you and your organization accomplished this year?

This year, we expanded services to at-risk populations, including individuals with HIV, disabilities, and severe mental illness. Through Florida Community Care, we reached 20,000 members statewide, enhancing care coordination and improving outcomes for vulnerable communities.

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day would be spent on the ocean, where I find peace and joy. Being on the water brings me a sense of calm and clarity.

Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.

I play the guitar—Spanish and popular music. I started in high school and performed at community events. Even now, I still play when I can, and my old group is reuniting in memory of our late teacher. Music has always been a special connection that brings people together.

What inspired you to work in community health/healthcare?

After 30 years in private healthcare, I felt a deep calling to support the underinsured and uninsured. Healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. Expanding our Health Center’s services in 2023 to include prenatal and postpartum care has been incredibly rewarding, knowing we are reaching women who otherwise might go without critical care.

Tell us about your very first job.

At 12, I was a newspaper delivery girl, braving all the weather at 5 AM to deliver 80 papers. Growing up in Central Pennsylvania, I learned resilience and responsibility early on. On tough days, my dad helped, turning hard work into special bonding moments.

What do you find most rewarding about your work now?

Seeing our teams collaborate to deliver high-quality, affordable healthcare is incredibly fulfilling. Over the past two and a half years, we’ve transformed our organization, and I take pride in fostering a workplace where employees are proud to contribute to meaningful change.

Tell us about your proudest moment—on or off the job.

Graduating from Penn State in 1990 was a defining moment. Beyond education, it represented independence, discipline, and exposure to diverse perspectives that shaped my career and leadership approach.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid, and why?

I wanted to be a teacher, often lining up my stuffed animals as students. While I didn’t become a classroom teacher, my career has given me the opportunity to mentor and guide others, fulfilling my passion for inspiring growth.

What woman inspires you and why?

Oprah Winfrey’s resilience and dedication to education inspire me. She overcame adversity and used her platform to spark important conversations, aligning with my passion for lifelong learning and empowerment.

Finish this sentence: I believe…

I believe ego often gets in the way of true progress. If more people focused on the greater good rather than personal recognition, we could create a healthier, more unified world.

What is the most exciting thing you and your organization accomplished this year?

Launching our Maternal Health program was a major milestone. Previously, about 50 women annually arrived at the hospital without prenatal care. With our program and community partnerships, we’ve reduced that number to just four. Overcoming barriers like language, literacy, and limited medical records wasn’t easy, but our team’s dedication made it a success.

Describe your perfect day.

A morning walk with my dogs and coffee on the porch, followed by a game of tennis and breakfast with friends. Afternoons by the ocean with a great book, then dinner and entertainment with loved ones—ending the day feeling fulfilled and content.

Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.

I’m a huge dog lover!

What inspired you to work in community health/healthcare?

My journey in community health began in high school through an education-to-work program at my local health center. What started as student employment quickly became a passion as I saw the impact healthcare professionals had on my community.

I was inspired by the dedicated staff who provided quality care to those in my neighborhood. Having been a patient at the center myself, I understood the importance of accessible care. When the opportunity to lead arose, I embraced it, knowing I could make a lasting difference.

Tell us about your very first job.

My first job was as an Office Assistant at Outpatient Medical Center, Inc. in Natchitoches, Louisiana. I supported the executive team with clerical work, filing, and creating clinical forms.

I quickly became the go-to person in the office and was later placed at the clinic’s front desk. That experience still serves me today, reinforcing the value of operational efficiency and patient-centered care.

What do you find most rewarding about your work now?

I find fulfillment in developing programs that address patient needs and mentoring emerging leaders. Since joining the organization, I have helped expand services to underserved areas, introduce new healthcare programs, and improve access to care.

One of my favorite initiatives is hosting baby showers for expecting mothers, sometimes the only one they receive. I also take pride in growing leadership from within and seeing team members advance into key roles.

Tell us about your proudest moment—on or off the job.

My proudest moments are watching my three children graduate from college. As a first-generation college graduate, seeing them achieve their goals has been incredibly meaningful.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid, and why?

I wanted to be either a teacher or a fashion model. Teachers in my community were my first role models, always offering encouragement and support. Modeling appealed to me because I loved fashion and was tall enough to pursue it!

What woman inspires you and why?

My greatest inspiration is my grandmother, “Mama,” who raised me and my siblings when we had nowhere else to go. She ensured we never became a statistic of the foster system. Despite her own hardships, she provided unwavering love and stability. Her strength and resilience shaped who I am today.

Finish this sentence: I believe…

I believe that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

What is the most exciting thing you and your organization accomplished this year?

This year, we launched a Mobile Dental Unit to provide essential oral health services throughout Broward County. This fully equipped clinic ensures that individuals—regardless of circumstances—have access to quality dental care.

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day begins with prayer and worship music. If it’s a workday, it includes collaborating with my team, fostering innovation, and ensuring excellent patient care.If it’s a non-workday, I focus on self-care—spa time, music, and shopping. No matter what, I love ending the day with quality time, a great meal, and laughter with my husband, family, and granddaughter, Lani.

Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.

Most people don’t know that I have a great sense of humor! I love to laugh, lighten the mood, and bring joy to those around me. I also enjoy singing, cooking, and interior design.

What inspired you to work in health and human services?

My journey into health and human services is fueled by both personal experience and professional passion. As an immigrant, I experienced firsthand the barriers communities face when navigating complex social systems, reinforcing my commitment to equitable access to care. My clinical background gave me a deeper appreciation of how transformative health and human services can be—not just in providing care but in empowering individuals, strengthening families, and uplifting entire communities. Over the past 30 years, my mission has been to dismantle systemic inequities, foster resilience, and cultivate partnerships that drive lasting impact.

Tell us about your very first job.

My first impactful role was at a domestic violence shelter, where I confronted the harsh realities of systemic injustice and inequality. I witnessed both immense adversity and extraordinary resilience—the unwavering strength, courage, and determination of the women I served. This experience shaped my lifelong commitment to advocacy and fueled my passion for creating pathways to empowerment.

What do you find most rewarding about your work now?

The greatest reward of my work is witnessing transformations and seeing individuals rise above obstacles, reclaim their futures, and thrive. Collaboration amplifies this impact, and I take immense pride in fostering partnerships that create sustainable change. Equally fulfilling is watching my team evolve, knowing that together we are building a legacy of empowerment and opportunity.

Tell us about your proudest moment—on or off the job.

My proudest moments come when vision turns into reality—when programs I’ve developed drive real change. Hearing firsthand from individuals whose lives have been transformed by our work reaffirms my passion and purpose. Knowing our efforts open doors to new opportunities and brighter futures is the ultimate reward.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid, and why?

As a child, I aspired to be a judge, drawn to the idea of fairness, justice, and shaping a resilient society. Over time, I realized I could achieve similar goals in human services—directly advocating for individuals, building stronger communities, and creating opportunities for equity and justice.

What woman inspires you and why?

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor embodies the resilience and determination I admire. Overcoming adversity to become the first Latina Supreme Court Justice, her journey is a powerful testament to perseverance, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to justice—qualities I strive to reflect in my own work.

Finish this sentence: I believe…

I believe in the power of resilience, the strength of community, and the boundless impact of compassion and opportunity.

What is the most exciting thing you and your organization accomplished this year?

Securing affordable housing for homeless veterans was a defining milestone. On a personal level, building a dynamic, mission-driven team dedicated to transformative change has been one of my most fulfilling achievements.

Describe your perfect day.

As a mother, daughter, and friend, my perfect day is filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with family. As a leader, it’s about witnessing the impact of our work—celebrating success stories, forging meaningful partnerships, and collaborating with my team to drive innovative solutions. Ending the day with gratitude and a sense of purpose makes it truly perfect.

Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.

I’m a huge fan of superhero movies!

What inspired you to work in community health/healthcare?

I grew up in a family that instilled a strong sense of service. My father was a civil rights lawyer and activist, and his example shaped my commitment to giving back. As an emergency medicine physician, I appreciated being accessible to all patients, regardless of financial circumstances.

However, I realized that many never made it to the emergency room, and I needed to take my knowledge beyond the hospital walls. Medical information isn’t something people just acquire—it requires intentional outreach. That realization drives me to engage directly with the community, ensuring they have the knowledge needed to make informed health decisions.

Tell us about your very first job.

In high school, I worked at a small local diner, doing everything from waitressing and cooking to washing dishes and managing the cash register. I gained deep respect for those in the service industry, recognizing the skill and dedication required.

I also saw firsthand how many in these roles lacked access to healthcare, often relying on emergency departments for non-emergency needs. This early experience shaped my understanding of healthcare disparities and the importance of accessible, quality care for all.

What do you find most rewarding about your work now?

As Chief Medical Officer, I have the privilege of helping my colleagues deliver exceptional patient care. I also serve as a trusted voice in the community, sharing crucial healthcare information.

Baptist Health has been incredibly supportive of my community service initiatives, from educating women on heart disease and promoting organ and bone marrow donation to advocating for greater inclusion of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in healthcare and employment. The health system has also backed my efforts with the Orange Bowl Committee, which provides educational and leadership opportunities for youth through sports.

Tell us about your proudest moment—on or off the job.

The early days of the pandemic were among my proudest moments. Despite the risks and uncertainties, our medical staff showed up every day, providing care even when resources were scarce. The teamwork and dedication were truly inspiring.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid, and why?

I initially wanted to be a lawyer like my father, fighting for civil rights. But after a hospital visit while studying for law school exams, I realized the hospital was the most exciting place I had ever been. I traded the courtroom for the emergency room, and I have never looked back.

What woman inspires you and why?

Harriet Tubman has been my lifelong heroine. Her courage in escaping slavery and her selflessness in returning to lead others to freedom are awe-inspiring. She risked everything to uplift others, and that level of service resonates deeply with me.

Finish this sentence: I believe…

I believe that community service is not a sacrifice, it is a joy. When we align service with our passions, it becomes fulfilling and impactful. Whether it’s sharing medical knowledge, advocating for individuals with special needs, or engaging in sports-related community work, I believe everyone can find joy in giving back.

What is the most exciting thing you and your organization accomplished this year?

Baptist Health was named one of only four Behavioral Health Teaching Hospitals in Florida. This designation allows us to expand programs, improve mental health access, and train the next generation of professionals dedicated to behavioral health care.

Describe your perfect day.

Sailing and swimming in the ocean!

Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.

I have won gold medals as a Unified Partner in Special Olympics competitions.

What inspired you to work in community health and healthcare?

My passion for mentoring youth and promoting wellness inspired me to work in community health. I believe in a holistic approach that nurtures both physical and mental well-being. My mission is to empower underserved youth and women by providing them with education and resources that foster peace and health.

Tell us about your very first job.

As an intern at Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Mother and Baby unit, I saw firsthand the impact of compassionate care. This experience reinforced my dedication to supporting others and deepened my commitment to community service.

What do you find most rewarding about your work now?

Guiding and uplifting foster youth is the most fulfilling part of my work. Building meaningful relationships and helping them navigate challenges gives me a sense of purpose, knowing I am helping to shape a brighter future for them.

Tell us about your proudest moment—on or off the job.

One of my proudest moments was hosting the first annual Sisterhood Wellness Circle. Many of the foster youth we support had never experienced yoga or meditation before. Seeing them embrace a moment of peace and healing was truly moving.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid, and why?

I dreamed of becoming a pediatrician because I wanted to help children. While my career took a different path, my mission remains the same—to make a difference in the lives of youth and families by providing support and advocacy.

What woman inspires you and why?

Sarah Jakes-Roberts inspires me with her resilience, leadership, and ability to turn challenges into opportunities. Her journey encourages me to walk my own path with purpose and strength.

Finish this sentence: I believe…

I believe every community should be filled with peacemakers. Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, with access to resources that promote a healthy and fulfilling life.

What is the most exciting thing you and your organization accomplished this year?

Completing our first Community Safety Survey was a major achievement. We gathered feedback from over 200 community members about the impact of violence, and these insights will help us enhance our programs and address safety concerns more effectively.

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day would be spent at the beach, listening to the waves, feeling the sand between my toes, and sipping fresh coconut water. With a light breeze and no rush, I would fully embrace the tranquility and simplicity of peace.

Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.

I have a deep love for flowers—especially lavender, sunflowers, and roses. Their beauty and calming presence bring me joy and remind me to appreciate nature’s simple wonders.

What inspired you to work in community health/healthcare?

My passion for mental healthcare comes from a deep desire to help others and shift perceptions around mental health. I’ve seen the stigma and want to make seeking help easier and more accepted.

Mental health is essential to overall well-being, and I strive to break down barriers, especially in underserved communities. Working in this field allows me to make a lasting impact by helping individuals navigate emotional and psychological challenges.

Tell us about your very first job.

My first job out of college was with a Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM) company in Montvale, NJ. While in healthcare, it was a corporate role with no patient interaction. I worked on business requirements for clients across the U.S. and Europe.

After moving to Miami in 2012, I transitioned to finance at Jackson Memorial Hospital, my first true healthcare experience. The shift from corporate to hospital work was a big adjustment, but it was one of the best decisions I ever made.

What do you find most rewarding about your work now?

The most fulfilling part of my work is seeing people transform their lives. It is incredibly rewarding to watch individuals go from struggle to healing and empowerment.

It is a privilege to help people understand and manage their mental health. The biggest successes are the small victories—when someone gains confidence or hope.

Tell us about your proudest moment—on or off the job.

Becoming a mom to my twins, Arya and Dev, is my proudest moment. My husband and I faced years of struggle before being blessed with them, making parenthood even more meaningful. It’s both the hardest and most rewarding job!

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid, and why?

As a child, I dreamed of being a famous actress or singer—despite lacking talent in either! Later, I considered medicine but realized my passion lay elsewhere. My career path evolved, and today, I truly love what I do.

What woman inspires you and why?

Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo, inspires me. As a fellow Indian American, I admire her strength as a leader, businesswoman, and mother. Her commitment to leadership, philanthropy, and community service is remarkable.

Finish this sentence: I believe…

I believe everyone deserves access to the care and support they need to thrive, both physically and mentally.

What is the most exciting thing you and your organization accomplished this year?

We were designated as one of only four Behavioral Health Teaching Hospitals in Florida. This recognition enables us to expand programs, improve access, and train the next generation of mental health professionals.

Describe your perfect day.

A perfect day is when my employees feel safe and patients receive the high-quality care they need. I also appreciate days when we aren’t constantly putting out fires—I encourage a proactive approach to maintaining a balanced environment.

Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.

I have a passion for travel and have visited 64 countries across all seven continents. My next goal is to visit countries in alphabetical order—I still need to check off O, X, and Y. I also plan to revisit a country starting with H, as my last visit to Holland (now the Netherlands) was in 1998.

What inspired you to work in community health/healthcare?

I began volunteering at a hospital in high school after my grandfather passed away from cancer. Small acts of kindness—offering comfort, listening, or simply a smile—taught me the power of compassion. Now, with over 25 years of experience in healthcare, I have seen the interconnectedness of humanity in action. The word “compassion” literally means “to suffer together,” and as leaders, it is our duty to ease the burdens of patients, families, and teams in their time of need. Caregivers in healthcare are true earth angels.

Tell us about your very first job.

I started working around age seven in my family’s business. My grandparents opened a nursery in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1947, and many of my relatives, including my father, uncle, cousins, and siblings, worked there. My first job was helping customers load flowers into their cars and assisting my grandmother in the greenhouse. Eventually, I moved into sales. My grandparents built strong relationships with their customers, remembering names, birthdays, and always welcoming them with food. They taught me that life—and business—is all about human connections.

What do you find most rewarding about your work now?

Children’s hospitals are special places, and I deeply admire the strength of the children we care for. Their resilience and positivity inspire me, and their families endure so much. At Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, we create programs that allow kids to just be kids—sports team visits, art, music, dance therapy, and fun celebrations. We even have two trained therapy dogs who support our patients. Every day is “Kids Day” at Joe D., and we always include families, especially siblings. As one of seven children myself, I have a special place in my heart for siblings.

Tell us about your proudest moment—on or off the job.

When I was about ten years old, I created a holiday in my family called “Kids Day,” where the children took control for the day. That first year, we had ice cream for breakfast, pizza for lunch, and spent the day at an amusement park. I even made buttons for everyone to wear—some of which I still have! My Uncle Ron carried on the tradition, and Kids Day became a special event in our family. I love that I have carried a little of that spirit into my career, creating an environment where children’s needs come first and where they are given autonomy whenever possible. It’s important for kids to feel heard and valued, and I am proud to have contributed to that in my own way.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid, and why?

I used to watch daytime TV with my grandmother and wanted to be a talk show host. My family nicknamed me “Lois Lane” because I was always asking questions: “Where are you going?” “What are you doing?” and my favorite, “Why?” I love talking to people, learning from their experiences, and hearing their stories. That’s part of why I love working in healthcare—everyone has a story, from patients and families to team members. I get my energy from interacting with people, especially kids. Their perspectives on life are full of wisdom!

What woman inspires you and why?

My mother is a teacher and the mother of seven children. Her love for kids has inspired my own. My Aunt Mary Ann became an executive leader when it was rare for women to do so. She prioritized education, earning a PhD in Cellular Physiology in 1969, which inspired me to create educational funds for my own nieces and nephews. Education changes lives. Rita Case—she is a friend, mentor, and example of true philanthropy. She has taught me that giving isn’t just about generosity, but about making a lasting impact and building a stronger community. She is a business powerhouse, applying her sharp business acumen to everything she does, and she has a heart of gold.

Finish this sentence: I believe…

That “the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs

What is the most exciting thing you and your organization accomplished this year?

Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital earned multiple national awards this year, including:

• US News & World Report and Newsweek National Rankings for our services
• Magnet designation for excellence in nursing
• American College of Surgeons designation for excellence in pediatric surgical care
• Pinnacle of Excellence Award for patient experience
• Top 10 ranking in the country for “most humanizing” pediatric care

What I am most proud of is that our entire team made these accomplishments possible. It took the dedication of our entire village to provide the outstanding care and patient experience that keeps our hospital among the best in the nation.

Describe your perfect day.

I wake up naturally—no alarm. I have coffee with my husband on our balcony and we chat. We play some tennis and have a nice lunch. I spend the afternoon reading library books, FaceTiming my family, and taking a nap. In the evening, we cook dinner (although my husband is the better cook!), friends come over, and we laugh all night. I take a bubble bath, watch a documentary, and fall asleep to the sound of rain outside.

Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.

I go to the public library every week to pick up my books on hold. I am a speed reader and will read anything. If you have a recommendation, email me at cait.beck.stella@gmail.com. I am also a foodie and love restaurant recommendations! I keep a spreadsheet and a Google Map of my favorite places—if you want a copy, just email me.