Hispanic and Latino leaders to know in 2024 Part 2

Becker’s released a list honoring Hispanic and Latino healthcare leaders.

Diverse leadership in healthcare enhanced the overall experience for both patients and providers. The individuals recognized reshaped the patient journey, led the next generation of healthcare providers, and advanced diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Special thanks were extended to Rhoda Weiss for her contributions.

• Jorge A. Parodi

Vice President of Cardiovascular Services at Washington Regional Medical System (Fayetteville, Ark.). Mr. Parodi assumed his role in July 2024, bringing over 20 years of healthcare experience, particularly in cardiovascular services. He previously served as vice president of the Baptist Heart & Vascular Institute in Pensacola, Fla., and was the chief operating and client engagement officer at Mass Technologies in Columbus, Ohio, prior to his current position.

• Elizabeth Paskas

Senior Vice President and Chief Patient Experience and Performance Improvement Officer at Hackensack Meridian Health (Edison, N.J.). Dr. Paskas drives strategic initiatives focused on creating exceptional human experiences within a patient- and family-centered care model. Her approach emphasizes clinical excellence defined by safety, efficiency, and meaningful experiences. Dr. Paskas leads ongoing improvement initiatives across the system’s affiliated hospitals, including a redesign strategy that enhances the patient journey from hospital to ambulatory care by fostering better communication among care teams and stakeholders. Under her leadership, standard operating procedures have been established to improve patient care consistency and HCAHPS scores. She has also developed educational modules to support nurses and physicians in improving patient outcomes, resulting in high engagement among nurse leaders in her programs. Dr. Paskas has been recognized with the Hackensack Meridian Health “Break the Ceiling” award for her work.

• Frank J. Penedo

Associate Director for Population Sciences and Director of Cancer Survivorship and Supportive Care at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at University of Miami. Dr. Penedo serves on the National Institutes of Health’s national advisory council on minority health disparities. He evaluates the role of sociocultural, biobehavioral, and psychosocial mechanisms underlying disease activity and health outcomes. In 2023, he received the International Society of Behavioral Medicine “Distinguished Scientist” award. His published studies focus on the efficacy of evidence-based psychosocial interventions in promoting optimal chronic disease management and health outcomes in cancer. His research includes working with underserved groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, who have limited access to cancer care. He is currently the principal investigator for a Hispanic community health study in 120 Miami area clinics and primary care offices, leading research in unmet supportive care needs for cancer survivors. In addition, Dr. Penedo is the principal investigator for a National Cancer Institute study examining social, cultural, behavioral, and medical influences on adjustment to cancer survivorship in Hispanic patients.

• Tatiana A. Pestana

Chief of Staff for Broward Health Coral Springs (Fla.). Dr. Pestana serves as the chief of staff at Broward Health Coral Springs, representing the medical staff of the 250-bed facility within one of the nation’s largest public healthcare systems. The hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including a state-of-the-art cardiac program, advanced orthopedic care, and The Maternity Place. It also hosts one of two locations of the Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital, providing specialized pediatric services such as emergency care and neonatal intensive care. In her role, Dr. Pestana bridges the gap between medical staff and administration, participating in committees aimed at improving quality and developing hospital policies related to patient care and safety. Board certified in internal medicine and pediatrics, she brings over 20 years of experience in outpatient and hospital settings, emphasizing family-centered care and preventive health. Fluent in Spanish and knowledgeable in French, Dr. Pestana effectively communicates with Broward County’s diverse population, enhancing patient engagement and care.

• Hugo Pizarro

Senior Vice President and CHRO, Maimonides Health (Brooklyn, N.Y.)
In his role as Senior Vice President and CHRO at Maimonides Health, Mr. Pizarro is responsible for managing all aspects of employee relations, processes, and data. He develops and implements comprehensive strategies for talent acquisition, employee engagement, and customer service, collaborating with senior leaders on change management initiatives. His duties include aligning HR policies with organizational goals, ensuring compliance with labor regulations, and overseeing recruitment, retention, and organizational development. He also champions diversity and inclusion efforts, managing a $5.5 million annual grant for targeted training in the healthcare sector. Since joining Maimonides, Mr. Pizarro has restructured the HR department to enhance strategic recruitment and initiated a three-year plan to boost employee engagement, aiming for Great Place to Work certification.

• Sheila Rankin

CEO, AdventHealth Kissimmee (Fla.)
As CEO of AdventHealth Kissimmee, Ms. Rankin directs the strategic operations that align with AdventHealth’s vision and mission, leading a team of over 1,500. With nearly 20 years at AdventHealth, starting in finance, she has overseen significant expansions to better serve the community, including new state-of-the-art operating rooms and a new floor with 40 private patient rooms. Ms. Rankin also led the launch of the AdventHealth Partin Settlement emergency department and health park, now celebrating its fourth anniversary. Under her leadership, AdventHealth Kissimmee has earned several accolades, including the Leapfrog “A” hospital safety grade and the Healogics Center of Distinction designation for wound care.

• Rich Robles

Chief Diversity Officer and Vice President, Boston Children’s Hospital
Mr. Robles is responsible for leading initiatives that foster inclusion and belonging at Boston Children’s Hospital while aligning with its strategic goals. He collaborates on enhancing employee resource groups and has extensive experience in organizational development, culture transformation, and leadership development. Before joining Boston Children’s, he led diversity and inclusion initiatives at a healthcare organization in the Southeast, managing both internal and external DEI consulting. Committed to his Guatemalan heritage, he serves on the advisory council for Hispanic/Latino affairs in North Carolina and is an active board member of the Latino Equity Fund in Boston and the Human Resources Leadership Forum, as well as a mentor for ALPFA Boston.

• Daisy Rodriguez

COO, Humboldt Park Health (Chicago)
As COO of Humboldt Park Health, Ms. Rodriguez oversees daily operations at the community safety-net hospital. With over 30 years in nursing, healthcare administration, and community health, she focuses on enhancing processes and strategic planning to improve patient care. Under her leadership, Humboldt Park has implemented patient-centered and culturally competent initiatives, resulting in a 40% increase in mammogram screening rates through targeted outreach. The hospital collects data on social determinants of health to address issues like obesity and Type 2 diabetes while expanding access to mental health services and affordable housing. Ms. Rodriguez has built strong partnerships with local organizations to combat food insecurity and improve health outcomes, contributing to Humboldt Park Health becoming the first facility in the Midwest to receive Healthcare Equity Certification from The Joint Commission.

• Elisa M. Rodriguez

Vice President and Associate Director of DEI, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (Buffalo, N.Y.)
Dr. Rodriguez has been with Roswell Park for over 20 years, starting as an undergraduate researcher before returning as a faculty member in 2012. She drives advancements in cancer care, research, outreach, and education by recruiting and retaining faculty. Her role also involves connecting community members to employment and educational opportunities, as well as culturally competent care. Under her leadership, the ROCK Stars program has paired cancer survivors with 60 scientists, enhancing cancer research and promoting the involvement of underrepresented populations in clinical trials. Dr. Rodriguez shares her expertise globally, participating in panels like the National Comprehensive Cancer Network DEI director’s forum. Her research on HPV vaccination in rural areas focuses on improving access to quality cancer screening and care.

• Estelamari Rodriguez

Associate Director of Outreach and Assistant Director of DEI, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami
Dr. Rodriguez, a bilingual thoracic oncologist and among the 2.4% of Latina physicians in the U.S., leverages her social media presence to promote wellness and belonging. Since 2020, she has developed Spanish-language video content and seminars for Cancer Global Resource for Advancing Cancer Education, a nonprofit that empowers patients and caregivers. She serves on the health equity committee for the ECOG/ACRIN Cancer Research Group and mentors minority medical students and fellows through the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s virtual diversity mentoring program. A triple board-certified hematologist and oncologist, Dr. Rodriguez has played a key role in establishing a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care at Sylvester and co-leads the thoracic site disease group.

• José E. Rodríguez

Associate Vice President for Health Sciences Workforce Excellence, University of Utah Health (Salt Lake City)
Dr. Rodríguez heads the Office for Health Sciences Workforce Excellence at the University of Utah, overseeing programs aimed at cultivating a culturally competent health workforce. Initiatives like the Saturday Academy and Health Professions Academy engage underrepresented students in health sciences through experiential learning and mentorship. In addition to his administrative role, he mentors junior faculty and practices as a primary care provider at the Redwood Health Center, where he is also the associate medical director. His commitment to underserved communities, particularly Hispanic and Latino populations, extends to providing medical information through Spanish-language media. A respected scholar, his research on health disparities and representation in medicine is widely published, and he actively advocates for equitable healthcare access and education.

• Iris L. Romero

Executive Vice Dean, Biological Sciences Division and Pritzker School of Medicine, Dean for Diversity and Inclusion, University of Chicago Medicine
Dr. Romero is a pivotal leader at the University of Chicago Medicine, overseeing strategic initiatives across the institution, including the Pritzker School of Medicine. As Dean for Diversity and Inclusion, she has advanced equity and belonging efforts, including a cluster hire program to enhance faculty diversity and support for faculty of color. An experienced obstetrician and gynecologist, she specializes in hereditary cancer management and focuses her research on cancer prevention, supported by the National Institutes of Health. Her clinical practice is dedicated to underserved communities, and she is a strong advocate for health equity, particularly for minority groups. Additionally, Dr. Romero’s editorial work reflects her commitment to LGBTQ+ healthcare, promoting research and support tailored to this community.

• Ruth Sagastume

CNO, Ochsner Medical Center–New Orleans
Ms. Sagastume serves as the Chief Nursing Officer at Ochsner Medical Center–New Orleans, leading operations, patient quality outcomes, and nursing education for the largest hospital in the Ochsner Health system. As a member of both the medical executive committee and the board of directors, she oversees regulatory compliance and performance improvement while promoting professional nursing practices and career development. With 23 years at Ochsner, she has been pivotal in implementing innovative programs, such as a virtual nursing model that streamlines admission and discharge processes, and a medication administration initiative enabling pharmacists to provide bedside care. Her leadership has significantly decreased nursing turnover and reliance on external agency nurses. Additionally, Ms. Sagastume is actively involved in Ochsner’s DEI nursing council, advocating for initiatives that enhance workforce diversity.

• Debbie Salas-Lopez

Senior Vice President of Community and Population Health, Northwell Health (New Hyde Park, N.Y.)
Dr. Salas-Lopez is the Senior Vice President of Community Wellness and Population Health at Northwell Health, where she spearheads efforts to improve community health and equity across various markets. Collaborating with community and faith-based leaders, she established Northwell’s health equity taskforce, which consists of over 100 leaders dedicated to addressing health disparities and enhancing care coordination. Recently, she expanded the taskforce’s initiatives to include a clergy advisory council and the Faith Leaders Network, promoting interfaith discussions on mental health. Dr. Salas-Lopez also initiated the community scholars program, providing academic and career opportunities for students from underserved communities, and has been instrumental in developing the upcoming Northwell School of Health Sciences. She leads partnerships aimed at tackling social determinants of health, including food access and employment challenges.

• Ana Victoria Sanchez

Vice President of Supply Chain and Support Services, Virtua Health (Marlton, N.J.)
In her role as Vice President of Supply Chain and Support Services at Virtua Health, Ms. Sanchez seeks to transform the supply chain into a clinically driven, value-based model. She actively collaborates with clinical staff to enhance efficiency and reduce their workload. Since joining Virtua, she has emerged as a key leader, shifting perceptions of the supply chain from a transactional role to a strategic asset. Her five-year vision encompasses a comprehensive strategic plan to modernize infrastructure, upgrade technology, and expand product management capabilities, all of which are on track to meet significant milestones and enhance colleague engagement. Ms. Sanchez is also a member of the National Association of Professional Women and the Council of Supply Chain Executives.

• José R. Sánchez

President and CEO, Humboldt Park Health (Chicago)
Mr. Sánchez has been the President and CEO of Humboldt Park Health since late 2010, bringing over 40 years of experience in urban healthcare. His leadership emphasizes advancing health equity for the hospital’s substantial Hispanic/Latinx and African American populations. Under his direction, Humboldt Park Health recently became the first facility in the Midwest to receive Healthcare Equity Certification from The Joint Commission. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, he led a comprehensive rebranding initiative that centers diversity and inclusivity in the hospital’s mission. He has launched programs addressing social determinants of health, such as food insecurity, and increased access to care through mobile medical and dental units, resulting in a notable rise in mammogram screening rates. Additionally, he is overseeing the development of a new wellness center, set to open in autumn 2024, aimed at enhancing community health resources.

• Leonardo Seoane

Founding Dean of Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer, Ochsner Health (New Orleans)
Dr. Seoane is the Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer for Ochsner Health and the founding dean of the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine. He is dedicated to establishing the only Historically Black Colleges and Universities medical school in the Gulf South, one of the few in the nation. Collaborating with Xavier University of Louisiana and Ochsner Health, he aims to increase the representation of underrepresented physicians, particularly Black and Hispanic doctors, to address disparities in the medical workforce. In his role as chief academic officer, Dr. Seoane oversees a wide range of educational programs and partnerships, including collaborations with LSU and Loyola University of New Orleans. He emphasizes the importance of diversity in medicine to improve healthcare access and patient trust, especially in light of the projected physician shortage in the U.S. by 2036. As a first-generation Cuban American, he is committed to health equity and community service, founding initiatives like the Gulf Coast Chapter of the National Hispanic Medical Association, and advocates for pathways that inspire Hispanic students to pursue careers in medicine.

• Ramon Soto

Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Northwell Health (New Hyde Park, N.Y.)
Mr. Soto is the Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Northwell Health, responsible for shaping the health system’s brand strategy and overseeing its extensive marketing and communications efforts. Since joining in 2015, he has played a crucial role in the organization’s rebranding from North Shore-Long Island Jewish to Northwell Health. He has led mission-driven campaigns on critical issues like gun violence prevention and health equity, including the notable “It Doesn’t Kill to Ask” campaign, which aims to reduce gun violence among children and has garnered support from over 1,000 hospitals nationwide. Mr. Soto has also ventured into the entertainment sector by creating Northwell Studios, producing docudramas and specials that humanize healthcare and engage audiences on social issues. His initiatives have resulted in partnerships with major networks such as HBO, Hulu, and National Geographic, earning multiple awards and significant viewer reach. He is also a board member of the Ad Council.

• Eduardo Sotomayor

Vice President and Executive Director, Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute (Tampa, Fla.)
Dr. Sotomayor serves as the Vice President and Executive Director of the Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute, leading a dedicated team in advanced cancer care at one of Florida’s top academic medical centers. An internationally recognized expert in cancer immunology and immunotherapy, he has authored over 130 influential research papers that have significantly advanced lymphoma treatment. Under his leadership, the cancer institute has expanded its clinical and research services, earning recognition as one of the nation’s leading oncology programs by U.S. News and World Report. His initiatives include implementing cutting-edge therapies such as CAR-T cell treatment and advanced radiation technologies like the CyberKnife system. Dr. Sotomayor is actively involved in prominent medical organizations, serving as chair of the Lymphoma Research Foundation Mantle Cell Lymphoma Consortium and holding key positions on multiple cancer research committees.

• Amalia Maislos Stanton

Senior Vice President and Chief Strategic Communications and Marketing Officer, Memorial Hermann Health System (Houston)
Ms. Stanton leads strategic marketing, branding, and communications for Memorial Hermann Health System, which includes 17 hospitals and 265 care sites, employing 40,000 staff and affiliated physicians. She works to elevate brand awareness, tackle public health challenges, and address health disparities in Houston. Her efforts involve community engagement, digital outreach, and culturally appropriate messaging to ensure access to care and information. She directs consumer and market research, measurement, and analytics for market planning and campaign development, driving market share and service line growth. Projects like Resolution, a comprehensive, no-cost program, promote optimal health for over 100,000 participants annually by focusing on health, nutrition, and wellness. Ms. Stanton has received numerous accolades, including the Houston Business Journal’s “Women Who Mean Business” award and CKS LUXE magazine’s “Top 20 Impact Maker” award. She also serves on the boards of the Holocaust Museum Houston and March of Dimes.

• Kathryn Stella

Associate Vice President of IT Planning and Administration, University of Miami Health System
As Associate Vice President of IT Planning and Administration, Ms. Stella is instrumental in shaping the strategic direction and operational effectiveness of the IT department at the University of Miami Health System. Reporting to the CIO, she oversees the planning and execution of IT initiatives that align with organizational goals while managing multimillion-dollar budgets for efficient resource allocation. She leads cross-functional teams to implement innovative technology solutions that enhance productivity and service delivery, notably successfully implementing ServiceNow within the health system to boost stakeholder confidence in IT operations. Her leadership has significantly reduced operational costs through strategic resource optimization and vendor management, maximizing the value of IT services while ensuring high-quality care.

• Christopher Trevino

Vice President and Physician Executive, Baton Rouge Market; Chief Medical Officer and Administrator, Our Lady of the Lake Ascension (Gonzales, La.)
Dr. Trevino serves as the Vice President and Physician Executive for the Baton Rouge Market at Our Lady of the Lake Health and as Chief Medical Officer at Our Lady of the Lake Ascension. He oversees emergency services across six facilities, treating around 200,000 patients annually, with a strong emphasis on improving patient outcomes and maintaining high-quality care. With over 25 years of experience in emergency medicine, Dr. Trevino has been an integral part of Our Lady of the Lake Health since 1999, deeply committed to the Ascension Parish community. He also serves as the medical director for all emergency medical services and fire services in the parish, providing support to the sheriff department’s crisis response team. Furthermore, he champions workplace inclusivity as the executive sponsor of the Veterans CommUNITY group, advocating for military veterans within the organization.

• David Vega

Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, WellSpan Health (York, Pa.)
Dr. Vega serves as the Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at WellSpan Health, overseeing clinical operations since joining in 2002. He has been instrumental in launching community accessibility initiatives aimed at enhancing patient access, satisfaction, and overall wellbeing. Under his leadership, WellSpan has made significant strides in patient outcomes, especially in blood pressure management and cancer screenings, with some metrics now ranking in the top 5-10% nationally. Key projects include a mobile mammography coach that brings screening services to underserved areas and a virtual approach to inpatient care. He also spearheaded a $50 million renovation of the emergency department at WellSpan York Hospital and collaborated on innovative neighborhood hospital projects. His efforts have earned WellSpan numerous accolades for safety and quality care, while achieving a record-high physician retention rate and addressing physician burnout.

• Johanna Vidal-Phelan

Chief Medical Officer of Quality and Pediatrics, UPMC (Pittsburgh)
Dr. Vidal-Phelan is the Chief Medical Officer for Quality and Pediatrics at UPMC Health Plan, where she plays a crucial role in shaping clinical strategies and driving quality initiatives. Her focus is on improving healthcare outcomes, promoting diversity and equity, and ensuring person-centered care. Collaborating with UPMC leadership, she develops programs to enhance service quality for members, working closely with healthcare providers to exceed benchmarks. In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Dr. Vidal-Phelan remains active in clinical practice as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. She is a recognized advocate for healthcare transformation, serving on several influential boards and receiving accolades such as the Al Día “Top Doctor” award and the YWCA “Heroine Award” for her leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic.

• Jeff Villanueva

CEO, AdventHealth Altamonte Springs (Fla.)
Mr. Villanueva oversees the comprehensive management and strategic direction of AdventHealth Altamonte Springs and the Seminole County market. Under his leadership, the 58,000-square-foot Lake Mary Health Park opened last year, providing residents with a new option for specialty care. He has guided AdventHealth Altamonte Springs to numerous accolades, including a Leapfrog “A” hospital grade and becoming the first hospital in Florida designated as an orthopedic and spine center of excellence by DNV Healthcare. Mr. Villanueva is also a past chair of the board for the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando. Before his current role, he served as CEO of AdventHealth East Orlando and the East Orange market, as well as Vice President and Administrator of AdventHealth Kissimmee from 2012 to 2016.

• Roderic “Roddy” Olvera Young

Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Boston Children’s Hospital
Mr. Young has led the marketing, communications, and digital engagement team at Boston Children’s Hospital for seven years, enhancing the reputation of this leading pediatric clinical and research institution. Collaborating with subject matter experts, he has developed a strong brand content marketing strategy aimed at providing easy access to information for patient families and improving access to care. Prior to his career in healthcare, Mr. Young spent nearly a decade in crisis and reputation management at a multinational communications firm and served as press secretary to the head of NASA, where he contributed to a global media strategy and internal communications. With a passion for science and technology, he brings a unique perspective and cross-cultural appreciation, drawing from his Mexican heritage. Mr. Young is an active member of the Wall Street Journal Chief Marketing Officer Network.

• Connie Camelo

Director of Interpreter Services, UMass Memorial Medical Center (Worcester, Mass.)
Ms. Camelo has led the Interpreter Services department at UMass Memorial Health for over 20 years, transforming it into one of the largest hospital-based programs in the U.S. Under her guidance, the department facilitates approximately 600,000 interpretation encounters annually in over 100 languages, supporting patients with limited English proficiency as well as the deaf and hard of hearing. Her strategic efforts have positioned UMass Memorial as a national leader in delivering culturally and linguistically appropriate care, essential for the diverse patient population in Central Massachusetts. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Ms. Camelo played a crucial role in addressing health disparities, ensuring equitable access to care for underserved communities. Her commitment to combining human expertise with advanced technology has improved patient outcomes, minimized misunderstandings, and managed healthcare costs while fostering community trust.

• Jose Luis Madera

Senior Manager of Integrated Behavioral Health, Valleywise Health (Phoenix)
Mr. Madera is the Senior Manager of Integrated Behavioral Health at Valleywise Health, bringing over 20 years of social service experience. He leads a growing team that has expanded from one provider to over 50 professionals, delivering vital behavioral health services across 11 federally qualified health centers. Fluent in Spanish and English, Mr. Madera adopts a holistic approach to therapy, employing various modalities to meet the unique needs of his clients. He initiated the medication-assisted treatment program, a pioneering effort at the local community health center to address substance use disorders comprehensively. Recognized as “Mental Health Leader of the Year” by the Phoenix Business Journal in 2023, Mr. Madera is dedicated to enhancing mental health access for low-income communities, reducing stigma, and integrating mental health services into primary care.

• Lorenzo Manquero

Director of Risk Management, Parkview Health (Fort Wayne, Ind.)
Mr. Manquero serves as the Director of Risk Management at Parkview Health, leading initiatives to enhance patient and employee safety across 14 hospitals and 300 physician offices. Specializing in system-level risk management, he analyzes processes that contribute to errors, focusing on addressing systemic issues rather than individual mistakes. His efforts have led to a significant increase in safety event reporting, doubling reports from 14,000 to 28,000 annually, and the development of real-time dashboards to track incidents such as falls and pressure injuries. Mr. Manquero’s initiatives have improved training and education while utilizing predictive modeling to identify emerging safety risks. As a member of Parkview’s DEI advisory council, he advocates for improved communication tools to better serve non-English-speaking patients, particularly the large Burmese community in Fort Wayne, promoting safety and inclusivity.

• Angela Mast

Operations and Translation Manager, Language and Disabilities Department, Inova (Falls Church, Va.)
Since 2009, Ms. Mast has served as the Translation and Operations Manager for Inova’s Language and Disabilities Department, ensuring high-quality care for its diverse patient population. She oversees the translation of critical documents into multiple languages, focusing on accuracy, compliance, and efficiency. Her responsibilities include coordinating with various departments and vendors, managing translation processes, and curating terminology databases to ensure timely delivery of materials. With expertise in computer-assisted translation tools, she guarantees consistency and quality across all Inova publications. Her leadership in managing vendor relationships and operational processes, along with her commitment to team development, makes her an invaluable asset to Inova’s mission of compassionate care for its multilingual community. Prior to her role at Inova, she honed her translation and teaching skills in language instruction and environmental conservation.

• Diana Montoya-Williams

Leader of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Equity Champion Team, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Dr. Montoya-Williams is an attending neonatologist in the NICU at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, one of the largest in the nation. Through her work with the hospital’s health equity center, she is shaping health equity research initiatives. She created and leads the NICU equity champion team, a family-engaged, interdisciplinary coalition aimed at mitigating bias and racism in the NICU. Dr. Montoya-Williams serves on several local and regional committees promoting maternal and infant health equity, including The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania’s taskforce on maternal and child health. A National Institutes of Health-funded physician researcher, she investigates inequities in maternal and infant health outcomes related to race, ethnicity, nativity, and preferred language, with a focus on immigration policies as determinants of perinatal health. Dr. Montoya-Williams regularly lectures nationwide on equitable and anti-racist healthcare delivery and medical research.

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