Meet the Team

“As a kid I used to dress up as Wonder Woman; now I get to feel like her every day.”

Melissa Medina
Senior Director, Employee Safety & Risk Management
Joined HSS in 2005

Being both an HSS employee and a patient, I’ve been part of the patient care experience from both sides. Whether collaborating with teams of professionals or receiving their compassionate care – I feel valued. From my first day at work, I was accepted as a member of the HSS family. One of my most gratifying experiences has been building and developing the Body Mechanics Program, a health and wellness initiative created specifically for HSS employees. Working to improve the lives of my colleagues brings me great joy. Their appreciation of the treatment and training makes my contributions that much more satisfying.

“Enabling and participating in the research process has truly been a life changing experience.”

Ericka Jeffries-Davis
Director, Research Accounting
Joined HSS in 2006

Shortly after joining HSS, my knee condition escalated to where I was using two canes… through my participation in a robotic knee study, HSS helped me walk again. I can personally attest to the level of commitment and quality of work done here.

In my role as Director, Research Accounting I lead a team that manages the funds for research projects, enabling researchers to perform the groundbreaking work they do. Our work translates to larger grants and more breakthroughs. Seeing my team’s connection to our mission gives me immense satisfaction… but the best part of working here has to be the people. Everyone genuinely cares for one another and takes immense pride in their work.

“The level of collaboration here is refreshing.”

Franck Barrat
Senior Scientist, Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program
Joined HSS in 2013

I previously worked in small bio-techs and large pharmaceutical companies. I wanted to get into academia and the working environment of HSS is part of what attracted me to the organization. Researchers and clinicians truly work side by side here. I can see the diseases I’m working on first-hand and have quick access to patient samples. It’s a small, collaborative team; everyone knows each other, so our interactions are seamless and easy. It’s rewarding to work with people who have the same passion and level of commitment that I do. Everyone is working towards the same goal - to better the lives of our patients.

“Every day is different but the common thread is always the patients.”

JoAnn Vega
Certified Clinical Research Coordinator, Research
Joined HSS in 2005

I coordinate all the logistical details for a variety of Lupus and Antiphospholipid Syndrome studies which include recruiting patients, processing samples, managing internal reviews and follow-ups with doctors. It’s really interesting work but one of my favorite parts of this job is the contact I have with patients throughout their journey with HSS. Many are seeking a second opinion or an alternate therapy. So, it’s really rewarding to see them meet a doctor who understands what they’re going through and identifies the best options for treatment. I’m proud of the work I do supporting research because it provides opportunities for patients that are outside the standard care.

“I’m trusted to provide the highest level of care.”

Johnny Tam
Physician Assistant, Physician Assistants-Floors
Joined HSS in 2005, Employee of the Month

I’ve worked at other hospitals, but HSS truly feels like home. You can tell that people are happy here and want to help each other. I love the fact that everyone is always willing to go the extra mile for patients. I joined HSS because of its world-class reputation, but I didn’t expect to feel so valued. The surgeons I work with respect my opinions, and there are ample opportunities for ongoing PA education. I’ve watched our department flourish, and once a PA starts, they stay. I’m happy to say I’ll be here until I retire.

“We’re passionate about making every patient’s experience exceptional.”

Janet Villa
Assistant Director, Office of Patient Experience
Joined HSS in 2011

I knew from my first interview that HSS was perfect for me. I am so impressed by the people and the level of dedication to patient care. Everyone is so friendly. Not only are they attuned to patient needs, but also go out of their way to make sure I feel comfortable - as a colleague. That caring attitude is at the core of every aspect of our organization. I oversee the patient grievance process, giving feedback to the care providers and addressing patients’ concerns. It is a challenging and incredibly rewarding role where I am afforded the opportunity to help enhance the patient experience every day.

“My managers helped me see my true potential.”

Sandy Vien
Senior Clinical Analyst, Information Technology
Joined HSS in 2012, Employee of the Month

I was looking for a career change when a friend recommended a great opportunity at HSS. I landed a position as IT Project Coordinator, which served as my first step into the world of project management. My manager recognized my potential and helped me progress quickly to the next level. Working with top talent means you have the opportunity to learn and grow. Career paths are clearly defined, making the benchmarks for success obvious and attainable. Our leaders are great role models - they see and work to uncover talents in you that you don’t even know you have!

“I get to help people every day.”

Michael Finkenbine
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), Anesthesia
Joined HSS in 2012

When I was an engineer, I sat in a cubicle all day staring at a screen. I decided I wanted a career change and now, as a nurse anesthetist at HSS, I have the opportunity to meet new people from across the U.S. and around the world every day. People travel here because of our world-class reputation – and that’s something everyone, from surgeons to assistants, works hard to maintain. We do multiple surgeries in a day and strive for perfection every time. HSS is definitely the right fit for me, not just because of its excellent reputation, but because everyone here is dedicated and seems so gratified by their work.

"I'm proud of our reputation."

Danielle Barone
Associate Director, Spine Service
Joined HSS in 2011

Being part of the National Ski Patrol jump-started my interest in orthopedics. During my studies at Cornell, I did an elective at HSS. They hired me as a new grad, and I’ve been here ever since. Not only is HSS a world-class hospital, it is an amazing environment in which to learn and grow. There’s a clear pathway to advancement and career progression. I’ve done the hard work and proved myself - for that I’ve been rewarded and recognized.

My biggest challenge? Juggling competing priorities and managing expectations of those who count on me every day; being successful at it gives me the greatest satisfaction. By learning how to facilitate change and collaborate within high-functioning teams that demand the best of me - I’m constantly growing - both as a PA and as a colleague who can be counted on.

“No matter your role, everyone is treated as an equal.”

Erik Attia
Research Associate / Lab Manager, Research
Joined HSS in 1993

I’ve been working at HSS since 1993 and take pride in my achievements during my time here. I’d always planned to go to medical school but after spending two years in the research labs at HSS, I was hooked. I decided to stay and develop my career here. Working alongside engineers, biologists and clinicians and being a part of the development of cures and treatments for diseases is really rewarding, and it’s now my responsibility to ensure they have the resources they need to do their jobs. I’m constantly learning and challenged at HSS and am proud to work at the cutting-edge of research.

"You can learn as much as you want."

Melissa Fleischer
Clinical Nurse II, Operating Room
Joined HSS in 2009

I’ve been passionate about working in the OR ever since I saw an eight-hour open-heart surgery during my clinical rounds in nursing school. I was a bit skeptical about orthopedic surgery and thought it might be limited, but a six-month residency program at HSS really opened my eyes. I’ve been here ever since. It’s a fast-paced environment but you’re surrounded by people who have your best interest in mind. And everyone is working towards the same goal. I am with patients right before their surgeries, when they are stressed and may even be having second thoughts. It’s my job to reassure them they’re in safe hands.

"I value teamwork."

Jocelyn Garma
Clinical Nurse III, Hand and Foot Center
Joined HSS in 2002

I’ve worked for the Hand and Foot Center since it first opened in 2009. You could say we’ve grown together. It’s an opportunity to work with world renowned orthopedic surgeons and have the supportive team around me I need to develop. I’ve always been ambitious and keen to take the lead - and for that have been recognized for my achievements. Since working at HSS, I’ve received the Nursing Excellence Award and the Patient Safety Award, but my number one priority is my patients; it takes a team to ensure they’re well cared for.

“There’s a very special culture here."

Dalia Abusharr
Assistant Director, Language Services
Joined HSS in 2013

I bridge the gap between Arabic speaking patients and their healthcare team. It’s my job to keep patient safety a main consideration, ensuring they can effectively communicate their needs with our staff. So even though I don’t treat the patients directly, I still feel I play a critical role in their recovery. Being part of HSS is like joining a family. I’m surrounded by dedicated, caring people who always go the extra mile, for their patients and each other. I can honestly say I feel appreciated every day and I’m truly proud to be part of this organization.

"I get to do what I love, every day."

Cara Ann Senicola
Director, Rehabilitative Medicine
Joined HSS in 2007, Employee of the Year in 2016

I started at HSS as a student (in our sports physical therapy clinic). Today, I am the clinical supervisor at one of our offsite locations. My career at HSS is a great example of how employees are encouraged to develop their skill set and expand their role. I’ve been fortunate to have amazing mentors who always motivated me to stretch myself and take on new challenges. I now have the opportunity to share my experiences and help others grow, too. HSS is continuously evolving and likewise provides the tools and support to help their employees get to the next level – and that makes me proud to work here.

"Creating a world-class experience, one patient at a time."

Berenice Adams
Social Work Manager, Social Work Programs
Joined HSS in 2006

HSS provides amazing services. We are a world renowned organization who treats patients from all cultures and communities. Many patients have vulnerabilities beyond a bad hip. As a social worker, I’m here to work with patients and families, to broker relationships between them and the interdisciplinary patient care team, ensuring they are safe, comfortable, and well-informed.

There’s a culture of excellence here that’s palpable, from the clinicians and beyond... Working as part of the care-delivery team means I partner with top colleagues in the field, advocating for the best patient experience possible. Being a social worker at HSS isn’t just my day job - it’s my career and it’s who I am.

"You can buy new technology but you can’t buy teamwork."

Bashir Agboola
Chief Technology Officer / VP, Information Technology
Joined HSS in 2014

I joined HSS when it was on the brink of a major business and technology transformation. IT needed to expand its reach in order to meet the new demands that come with organizational growth and change. I saw the opportunity to do what I do best, and love to do – every day. I’m a techie at heart - but I also wanted a role where I could lead, coach, mentor, and influence others; I found all of that at HSS.

Today HSS has the latest, greatest technology, as well as enabling processes. But it is managing change that can be most challenging – that is why teamwork is so important, especially because IT directly impacts patient care and every department in the organization. We have a real connection with the staff at all levels – and the work they do.

"There’s no lack of challenges."

Brian Sweeney
Senior Vice President, Budget
Joined HSS in 2014

I didn’t think twice when I was offered the chance to join HSS. This is an elite healthcare institution and I knew I’d be working with smart, capable people. It hasn’t disappointed. This is a unique organization so there’s always a lot to learn. New challenges come from every angle and I’m never bored.

I lead a team that performs the day-to-day budgeting and financial reporting as well as planning and all the related analysis, presentations and modelling. But my job’s as much about relationships as it is numbers. In this cooperative, collaborative environment, everyone’s focused on delivering the best care possible.

"I’m proud of the difference we make."

Deirdre Vetere
Senior Director, Marketing
Joined HSS in 2015

When I left my marketing job at a major TV network, people couldn’t believe I was going into healthcare. But I wanted to do something more meaningful, and marketing at HSS is cutting-edge and smart. I’m getting the word out about the amazing research and teaching that happens here, as well as quality of care. I have personal experience of that, as my son had surgery here and I was so impressed with the service. This is an organization that’s at the top of its game and, for a marketing professional, that’s a great story to tell.

"We all play a role in delivering the best patient care."

Norbert Velazquez
Supervisor HRIS, Human Resources
Joined HSS in 2011

When people think about healthcare they think of doctors and nurses, but it goes way beyond that. I’m responsible for employee data: everything from hires to transfers, salary changes to time off. I’m behind the scenes but my team helps take care of the staff that takes care of our patients.

It’s part of a wider culture where everyone looks out for each other. For example, I’m in my current role because my boss said: ‘Hey, there’s a position in HR that looks like the next step for you.’ She understood my background and my ambitions and even though losing me meant more work for her she still encouraged my growth.

"We make it home away from home."

Francis Joseph
Building Service Aide, Environmental Services
Joined HSS in 2009

I believe in treating the hospital like your home and the patients like your family. My job is about much more than cleaning. It’s about smiling and being positive – even singing sometimes – all to make the patients feel relaxed and comfortable. I have everything I need to do the best job possible, and if I need something else, my supervisor’s door is always open. I enjoy the camaraderie, the respect from colleagues and the team effort. Our CEO is visible, - everyone knows him and that sense of strong leadership trickles down. From Security to Nursing, everyone is so welcoming and friendly.

"I have the opportunity to make an impact and lead change."

Sandra Goldsmith
Assistant Vice President, Education & Academic Affairs
Joined HSS in 2011

In this diverse leadership role, I provide strategic oversight of community benefit programming, mentor an outstanding team of public health professionals within Public & Patient Education, lead strategic projects and share in the operational oversight of the Education & Academic Affairs Division. No day is the same, but the work is always gratifying and stimulating as I collaborate with clinical staff and community stakeholders throughout the HSS landscape.

Prior to joining HSS, I was always attracted to roles where I could impact underserved communities – and with organizations that really cared about the lives of others.  My transition to HSS enabled me to broaden my reach in that endeavor, as well as to achieve my own professional goals - encouraging me to operate at the highest level. The hospital’s mission in bringing the best in care to patients in and communities throughout the world resonates with me. As leaders, it is important to have vision and clarity in seeing the path forward while inspiring and mentoring those who join us in forging the way. HSS has provided me with a clear direction and the support to achieve this.

"The opportunities for growth are endless."

Furhan Chodri
Sr. Lead MRI Technologist, Radiology & Imaging
Joined HSS in 2007

Since joining HSS as a Radiology Intern in 2007, I’ve been given the tools I need to build a truly successful career. From helping with my tuition to modifying my work schedule around classes, HSS has helped me achieve great things. The culture here is built on teamwork, compassion and patient-centered care. Our patients are always the focus of attention and MRI treatments are often customized to suit each individual case. That dedication is what initially impressed me about HSS and what makes me proud to work here today.

"This is an inspiring journey to be on."

Noreen Curran
Case Manager, Case Management
Joined HSS in 1988

HSS has grown significantly since I started nearly 30 years ago, and so have I. From a bedside nurse to a nurse case manager, the skills and knowledge I’ve gained here are essential to my role in coordinating patient care. And not only do I have the opportunity to make a difference in patients’ lives I’m able to make my mark on the future of HSS. It’s exciting to work for a world renowned hospital where your voice is heard. Leadership wants every one of us to feel connected to our mission and vision, and feel we have a say. We’re like a big family and I’m excited for the next 30 years.