Building Hope, Inspiring Change糖心传媒擬eet members of the Strong Recovery Team

Leah Hill

Substance Use Disorder Counselor 2
Adolescent & Young Adult Program at Strong Recovery

What is one lesson you’ve learned from your patients?

Don’t quit five minutes before the miracle.

People will surprise you! They evolve. They change. They’ll make decisions you never expected. Witnessing the growth process unfold is extraordinary. I continue to be pleasantly surprised and inspired by my patients and their families.

What inspired you to pursue a career in substance use treatment and recovery?

As a person in long-term recovery from substance use disorder myself, it was a very natural progression to pursue my CASAC (Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor) after first becoming a CRPA (Certified Recovery Peer Advocate). It offered me an opportunity to pay forward the hope and support that was and is so freely given to me in my personal recovery. This career allows me to combine my passion for the recovery process with my natural inclination toward clinical work.

How long have you been a therapist/counselor with the University of Rochester, and what does a typical day look like for you?

I started at the University of Rochester in January 2021, so five years.

A typical day as a therapist is always changing and incredibly dynamic. I spend my days meeting with patients, conducting intake assessments, coordinating with schools and other mental health providers, making outreach calls, collaborating with parents and guardians, and facilitating family or conjoint sessions as needed. I also work as an on-site consultant for a local school district (Fairport) one day each week. There is certainly never a dull moment in this line of work!

What are some common misconceptions about addiction and recovery?

Oh my, I could host a week-long seminar talking about this!

#1 Misconception 糖心传媒� 糖心传媒�Addiction is a moral failing.糖心传媒� 糖心传媒� Society often reduces those with substance use disorder (SUD) to “bad people” due to objectively harmful behaviors symptomatic of active addiction. SUD is a profound moral injury. To have an active SUD is, itself, traumatic.

#2 Misconception 糖心传媒� 糖心传媒�People can’t recover.糖心传媒� 糖心传媒� I categorically and emphatically reject this notion. I’ve seen people in my own life, in recovery communities, and among my patients literally return from the brink of death and go on to build extraordinary lives, families, and communities.

#3 Misconception 糖心传媒� 糖心传媒淐utting them off is just tough love.糖心传媒� 糖心传媒� Tough love does not mean cruelty. It means healthy boundaries for yourself and the person struggling, as an act of love. I would not be here today without those who loved me unconditionally, even during the pain and chaos of my active use. They believed in who I was and loved me until I could believe it, too.

How do you help patients navigate challenges on their recovery journey?

I focus on helping people build self-efficacy. I’ve worked with some folks for years, and because we’ve built that trust, we can have very candid conversations about their lives. They trust me to give honest feedback, and then they decide what to do with it. I simply walk beside them as a supportive guide and sounding board.

What makes the Strong Recovery team unique?

We糖心传媒檙e constantly exploring innovative approaches to improve care. Our Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) team is particularly extraordinary. We specialize in working with 14 to 24-year-olds with SUD. Our collective passion for our work, our folks, and families, and the recovery process is second to none! It is a genuine privilege to work with teammates who are ever ready to advocate for and champion those we serve糖心传媒攁nd who embody Meliora.

How do different disciplines and Strong Recovery糖心传媒檚 innovative programs work together to support patient recovery?

Recovery is far too complex for any one clinician to address, interdisciplinary collaboration is essential. Every patient brings unique strengths, challenges, family dynamics, medical needs, and recovery goals. This approach allows us to support the whole person糖心传媒攏ot just their substance use.

How does the University and leadership support your professional growth?

The tuition benefits program allowed me to complete my Master of Social Work in 2025. Within Strong Recovery, my leadership, and especially my direct supervisor, have consistently encouraged my curiosity and desire to keep learning. Because of that encouragement, I’ve been able to draw on another part of my professional background: education. Before becoming a therapist, I was a teacher, and I’ve combined that experience with my passion for clinical work through community education, outreach, and relationship-building. It’s been incredibly fulfilling.

Damaris Felix

Rehabilitation Therapist
Strong Recovery

What does compassion look like in your role?

Listening, giving respect, giving a smile, and passing no judgment.

How long have you been a therapist/counselor with the University of Rochester, and what does a typical day look like for you?

I’ve been a counselor for over 29 years and have worked at Strong for almost 11 years as of October 2026. When people ask me what I do for a living, I say, I help people recover their lives. There is never a dull moment. Every day is different. It could be connecting a patient with medical care or providing basic needs, such as food or hygiene products, to help them feel clean, proud, and normal. In my case, I’m bilingual, so I assist a lot of our Hispanic patients by connecting them with services available in our community.

What inspired you to pursue a career in substance use treatment and recovery?

What inspired me to pursue a career in substance use treatment and recovery was a combination of personal experiences and a deep desire to help others. Ever since I was a teenager, I have often found myself in positions where friends and classmates would seek me out for advice, support, or simply someone to listen to them. I realized early on the importance of being present for others during difficult times.

What do you enjoy most about working with patients and families?

I would say witnessing the transformation of our patients when they start making that commitment to their lives and being able to see how those around them are positively impacted as well. Seeing how their self-esteem gets stronger, and they feel empowered to achieve many of their dreams that at one point seemed impossible.

How do you help patients navigate challenges on their recovery journey?

I help patients by meeting them where they are on their journey while encouraging them to see the possibilities ahead. Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process, and every individual comes with unique strengths, challenges, and experiences.

How has your approach to counseling evolved?

My approach to counseling has evolved through experience, continued learning, and collaboration with colleagues from different disciplines. I would describe my style as a blend of traditional counseling principles and modern, evidence-based approaches. It includes elements of holistic care, patient-centered treatment, and harm reduction, recognizing that each person’s recovery journey is unique. Working alongside mental health professionals and other members of our treatment team has broadened my perspective and strengthened my ability to support patients in meaningful ways.

How does the University and leadership support your professional growth?

The University has given me the opportunities to participate in a wide variety of trainings that have helped me develop new skills, expand my knowledge, and learn innovative techniques to better serve our patients. One of the things I appreciate most is the encouragement I have received from my supervisors and leadership team. They have often challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone and take on new responsibilities or opportunities for growth. There were times when they saw potential in me that I did not yet see in myself, and their confidence encouraged me to keep growing both personally and professionally.

The post Living Our Values: A spotlight on Strong Recovery Community Behavioral Health Clinic appeared first on Office of Human Resources.

Providing hope, healing, and connection糖心传媒擬eet a member of the Older Adult Mental Health Services Team

Zoe Carlson, LMSW

Psychiatry
Mental Health Therapist

You have an interesting career path at the University of Rochester. Can you explain how you began your role as a therapist?

While obtaining my master’s degree, I chose an internship at the University of Rochester because I knew I wanted to work with older adults, not necessarily because I planned to become a therapist. Through that experience, I quickly discovered how much I enjoyed therapy, and I was fortunate to be hired at the University of Rochester after completing my internship.

What made you want to continue your professional journey here after completing your internship?

The environment, my coworkers, and the patients made it an easy decision to stay. From the beginning, I felt welcomed, supported, and included. Working with older adults was a great fit for me, and I knew this was a place where I could continue to grow professionally while making a meaningful difference.

What is a typical day like for you as a therapist for older adults?

Every day is a little different, which is one of the things I enjoy most about my job. I meet with adults ages 65 and older and help them navigate a wide range of challenges, from life transitions and grief to anxiety, depression, caregiving, and adjustment to medical conditions. Some patients are with me for a short period of time, while others I糖心传媒檝e worked with since I was an intern.

What do you enjoy most about working with older adult patients?

I enjoy hearing about their life experiences and learning from the wisdom they糖心传媒檝e gained over the years. They often offer unique perspectives that I carry with me long after our conversations. It糖心传媒檚 a privilege to be trusted with those experiences and to help them navigate new chapters of life.

What are some common misconceptions about aging and mental health?

Many people believe depression, anxiety, or loneliness are normal parts of aging. While older adults face unique challenges, mental health concerns are treatable and should never be dismissed because of someone糖心传媒檚 age.

How does working as part of an interdisciplinary team benefit patient care?

I work closely with psychiatrists, other therapists, nurses, nurse practitioners, and various healthcare professionals to support our patients. Constant collaboration allows us to share information, coordinate care, and provide a more complete approach to treatment.

What message would you like to share with older adults and their families about seeking mental health support?

It糖心传媒檚 okay to ask for help for yourself or for someone you love. Mental health support can improve quality of life, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you could describe your journey from intern to therapist in three words, what would they be?

Purpose, rewarding, meaningful.

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Compassionate service & support at every step糖心传媒擬eet members of the Guest Services Team

They are often the first faces to greet patients and visitors at the hospital.

Autumn Hall

Guest Services
Ambassador

What does 糖心传媒済uest service糖心传媒� mean to you personally?

Guest Services is about being there for people in moments that really matter. Whether someone is visiting a loved one, celebrating something special, or going through a difficult time, I糖心传媒檓 able to guide and support them. It makes my job feel meaningful because I know I糖心传媒檓 helping people in real ways every day.

How did you begin your career at the University of Rochester, and what are your key responsibilities during a typical shift?

I began working at the University of Rochester during my junior year of high school. It was my first job, and I wanted to be part of a place where I could help others and feel like my work mattered. During a typical shift, I assist at the hospital front desk by creating passes, giving directions, answering phones, and sometimes transporting visitors to their destinations.

How do you feel your role contributes to the overall patient and visitor experience at the hospital?

My role often serves as the first point of contact, which sets the tone for a visitor糖心传媒檚 experience. By being patient, helpful, and welcoming, I can make people feel more at ease during what might be a stressful time. Even small interactions can make a big difference in how someone feels when they enter the hospital.

What training or skills have been most critical in this role?

Empathy, communication, and patience have been the most important skills in my role. You never know what someone is going through, so it糖心传媒檚 important to treat everyone with kindness and understanding. Being able to clearly communicate and stay calm helps ensure visitors feel supported and respected.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that I糖心传媒檓 making a difference in someone糖心传媒檚 day. I also really appreciate the environment my coworkers, supervisors, and managers create, because it feels supportive and welcoming. It feels good to work somewhere where I糖心传媒檓 constantly learning and have people I can rely on, which makes the experience even more meaningful.

How has this role changed the way you interact with people throughout your day?

This role has helped me become more confident and open when interacting with others. I糖心传媒檝e learned how to communicate more clearly and step out of my comfort zone. It糖心传媒檚 made me more aware of how I can help people, even in small everyday situations.

What advice would you give someone starting in Guest Services?

I would tell someone starting in Guest Services not to be afraid to ask questions and take their time learning. It糖心传媒檚 okay to make mistakes, as long as you糖心传媒檙e willing to learn from them. Being patient, observant, and open to growth will help you succeed in the role.

If you could describe your service style with three words, what would they be?

Empathetic, attentive, reliable.

Tasha Turner Abdullah

Guest Services
Representative

What is something about your role that might surprise people?

Good question! A lot of people are surprised at how quickly I learned the majority of the hospital. I tell them I have to know it all so I can help them. But we continue to expand, so there will be a lot more to learn.

What does 糖心传媒済uest service糖心传媒� mean to you personally?

Guest Services means being the face of the hospital. When people come in, I am the first person they interact with; whether they need directions or are visiting a loved one, I am here for them.

How did you begin your career at the University of Rochester, and what are your key responsibilities during a typical shift?

My career here at the University of Rochester Medicine began, actually, by word of mouth. My husband (who worked at the gift shop) heard my boss talking about how his department was hiring. And the rest, as they say, is history. This year I mark five years here at the University. My key responsibility is ensuring people reach their destination in a timely manner. If someone is having a surgical procedure or needs assistance to an appointment, I will get them there. If they need any other help, such as finding a patient’s location or an appointment, I am here to help.

How does your team support each other during busy and stressful times?

I have an AMAZING TEAM!听If one of our team members is having a rough day, we step in to help. Whether it’s a transport that they are unable to do or answering phone calls, we’re there. Even if one of us just needs a listening ear, we’re here.

What is your go-to way to make someone feel welcome instantly?

A BIG smile! It sometimes makes the individual feel better in an already stressful situation.

How has this role changed the way you interact with people throughout your day?

This role has encouraged me to listen more. Listening helps me better understand what’s going on. I am more compassionate towards people.

What advice would you give someone starting in Guest Services?

Have a big heart and a listening ear. Please don’t be afraid to ask questions. You need patience, and lots of it.

If you could describe your service style with three words, what would they be?

Personable, engaging, and harmonious.

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Community. Service. Support.糖心传媒擬eet members of the Public Safety team

Kamaran Moss Sr

Peace Officer, Community Resource Officer
Department of Public Safety

How did you begin your career at the University of Rochester?

I started my career journey at the University of Rochester at 18 years of age in the Emergency Department as a Patient Care Technician. I continued serving in the Emergency Department after becoming an officer. Working in the ED taught me patience and how to better communicate with individuals.

How long have you been with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and what is a typical day like in your position?

I have been with the Department of Public Safety for over five years and currently serve as the Community Resource Officer. In this role, my typical day involves engaging with faculty, staff, and students. I do this in a variety of settings (medical center and academic campus) to strengthen collaboration between DPS and the URochester community.

What skills are important for your role?

Strong communication, active listening, and empathy are essential skills for a successful Community Resource Officer. Equally important is the ability to develop thoughtful, practical plans to maintain a healthy and connected community.

What makes working at the University of Rochester different from other public safety roles?

I believe what sets the University of Rochester apart from other public safety roles is the strong sense of camaraderie and officers’ genuine willingness to support one another. Additionally, the unique nature of our campuses and the diverse locations allow us to wear many different hats, giving us the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles and situations.

How does the University and DPS support your professional growth?

The University and DPS support professional growth through tuition assistance and diverse training opportunities. I have taken advantage of several of these opportunities, serving as a Peer Support Officer and completing training in crisis intervention, field training, and other professional development programs.

Sandra Rivers

Public Safety Officer, Peer Support Officer
Department of Public Safety

How long have you been with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and what is a typical day like in your position?

I have worked in the Department of Public Safety for more than 18 years. A typical day with DPS is focused on maintaining a safe, calm environment and also fostering beneficial community relations with everyone you come in contact with throughout the day. I really enjoy giving stickers to little kids when I see them on the units. Watching their faces light up makes my heart happy.

What do you enjoy the most about working with the campus/community?

What I enjoy most about working for DPS is that the day-to-day calls for service are always different. You get to work with a variety of people while serving the University community. It’s a job that is so rewarding and makes a difference in people’s lives. Also, as a Peer Support Officer, I am there for my coworkers when they have something going on at work or in their personal lives.听听

What skills are important for your role?

Skills that are important for the role of a Public Safety Officer begin with the ability to be able to communicate with all different types of people. Also, the ability to think on your feet and to keep your composure and professionalism in all situations.

What advice would you give someone considering a career in public safety?

I would advise someone considering a career in DPS to take the leap of faith. You will have the most amazing coworkers while doing a job you will grow to love. Sometimes people are having a really tough day, and being able to stay calm and meet them with understanding makes all the difference

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Comfort in every draw糖心传媒擬eet members of our phlebotomist team

Kalissa Marks

Phlebotomist听听
Phlebotomy Department听

How long have you been a phlebotomist, and what led you to this career?

I have been a phlebotomist at URMC for almost two years. I was drawn to this career because I enjoy working with patients and wanted to be part of the healthcare field in a hands-on role. Phlebotomy allows me to make a meaningful impact during each patient interaction, often during moments when an individual may feel anxious or scared. Being able to provide comfort while contributing to their overall healthcare experience is what initially inspired me to pursue this role and continues to motivate me every day.听

What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about your role?

Phlebotomy provides a lot of variety. In addition to drawing blood, we perform EKGs, assist with patient specimen drop-offs, and offer road tech services to patients in our nursing homes as well as patient homes.听听

What does a typical day look like for you?

My day begins with opening the lab and ensuring everything is clean, organized, and ready for patients. I check in patients and draw blood throughout the day, relying on the guidance of our senior technicians and collaborating closely with my coworkers to ensure everything runs smoothly. Being able to support patients and working alongside such a skilled team makes every day meaningful.听

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I enjoy participating in the computer training class for new hires. We teach them how to register mock patients for blood work, including verifying information, understanding insurance, and reading and interpreting paper lab work orders. Seeing new team members gain confidence with their computer skills is incredibly rewarding. The class adds both a leadership and educational component to my day that I really enjoy.听听

How do you help patients feel comfortable during blood draws, especially those who are nervous or afraid of needles?

I take the time to explain the process, answer questions, and reassure them so they know what to expect. Using a calm and friendly approach, I work at a pace that makes patients feel safe and supported, which helps reduce anxiety and makes the experience as smooth as possible. When working with younger patients, I explain what I糖心传媒檓 doing in an age-appropriate manner and use a reassuring tone to help both the child and their family feel at ease. When necessary, I糖心传媒檒l have a coworker gently hold the child糖心传媒檚 arm to make the procedure safer and less stressful.听

How has UR supported your healthcare journey, or how would you describe the support provided by leadership and your coworkers at URMC?

The University has offered incredible support throughout my career here. I started in 2022 as a food and nutrition worker, and through the Career Pathways program, I was able to transfer into phlebotomy. Most recently, I was accepted into LPN school, and Career Pathways is covering my tuition and clinical costs, making it possible for me to pursue my long-term goals in healthcare.听

Debra McGurn听

Phlebotomy Operations Coordinator听
Phlebotomy Department听

How long have you been a phlebotomist, and what led you to this career?

I began my 14th糖心传媒痽ear in January. It was recommended that I pursue a career in phlebotomy because I have a son with hemophilia, and I was already familiar with finding veins in his arms to give him infusions as part of his care.听听

What does a typical day look like for you?听

A typical day in phlebotomy is a mix of patient interaction and lab work. We begin early in the day by preparing supplies and drawing blood from diverse patients (newborns to the elderly), which involves patient comfort to ensure they handle the draw well. Additionally, we complete PRECISE labeling and correct sample processing for sending specimens to the lab for results. We do this all while maintaining strict hygiene. Sometimes we speak with doctors’ offices about lab orders and tests to further help our patients.听

What skills do you think are most important for this role?听

It’s essential that the phlebotomist has compassion and is caring and understanding to make the patient feel as comfortable as possible. Being a team player is important for effective collaboration with other staff members in delivering patient care.糖心传媒疨hlebotomists must be detail-oriented, starting with correct patient identification to ensure they draw the correct vials of blood for tests ordered糖心传媒痑nd for specimen preparation for those vials.糖心传媒�听

What does compassionate care mean to you?听

I believe in kindness and a friendly smile糖心传媒攖hey go a long way with the patients, which starts at the front desk during check-in. Blood draws can be very stressful and scary. Making patients feel more comfortable and easing their anxiety during blood draws are important. Sometimes, striking up an appropriate conversation and showing empathy and professionalism during the blood draw procedure makes all the difference. Listening to your patient’s wishes also gets them through the process.糖心传媒疶he most rewarding part of my job is being a crucial link in helping a patient find a diagnosis and treatment for their health.听

How would you describe the culture in your department?听

The phlebotomy culture focuses on patients, and involves a lot of teamwork and precision to follow strict protocols for proper specimen collection and preparation. Labs provide a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment that requires good communication and technical skills to prevent errors.听

What advice would you give someone interested in becoming a phlebotomist?

If you are someone who enjoys helping others, has empathy and compassion, attention to detail, is dependable, and is looking for professional growth, phlebotomy may be a good fit. Individuals interested in pursuing a phlebotomy career at URMC, with no prior training, can apply to attend the . A Certificate of Completion is presented at the conclusion of the program.听

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A steady guide, navigating care with kindness糖心传媒擬eet a member of our nurse navigator team

Kimberly (Kim) Barrett

Lead GI Procedure Nurse Navigator
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Outpatient

What inspired you to become a nurse and eventually a nurse navigator?

At the age of 14, I started working in a retirement home, where I was initially assigned to the kitchen. By the time I was 16, I had begun assisting residents with their daily needs. Connecting with and supporting the residents inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, igniting a passion for caring for others that guides me to this day.

How do you support patients and families through their care journey?

I coordinate care for patients undergoing diagnostic and therapeutic gastrointestinal (GI) procedures that require anesthesia or moderate sedation, such as colonoscopies, endoscopies, endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). My primary focus is collaborating with our advanced practice providers and supporting patients.

In this role, I provide comprehensive patient education related to procedure preparation, medication management, and post-procedure recovery expectations. Many of the patients I support have medically complex situations, and I work collaboratively with the interdisciplinary care team to ensure they are medically optimized and scheduled in the most appropriate care setting to safely proceed with their procedure.

What part of your role makes you most proud?

Knowing that I糖心传媒檝e made a direct impact on patient care is very meaningful to me. My goal is always to ensure patients feel informed, supported, and confident as they move forward with their procedure. By providing education, reassurance, and guidance, I糖心传媒檓 able to help reduce anxiety and help patients feel more comfortable throughout their care experience.

What does a typical day look like for you?

My role involves a significant amount of multitasking. I review patient charts for those not yet scheduled to ensure they are medically appropriate and prepared for their upcoming procedures. I also work collaboratively with the Center for Perioperative Care to support patients who are already scheduled but may have new or ongoing health concerns that could impact anesthesia or procedure safety. In addition to this, I answer patient phone calls, provide education and reassurance, and assist team members as needed to support a smooth coordination of care.

What skills are most important in your role?

Flexibility, patience, strong multitasking skills, and a team-centered approach.

What does the career path entail for becoming a nurse navigator?

Registered Nurse (Bachelor糖心传媒檚 degree) with a minimum of three (3) years of experience is required. Experience in Gastroenterology (GI) is strongly preferred but not required.

What advice would you give someone considering this role?

It糖心传媒檚 a great role with a lot of autonomy, which allows you to take ownership of your work and make a real impact. The schedule is generally flexible, making it easier to balance work with other commitments. Overall, it糖心传媒檚 rewarding for those who enjoy supporting patients, collaborating with a team, and managing multiple tasks independently.

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Behind the microscope糖心传媒擬eet a member of our histology technician team

Jason Toland

Histotechnician
URMC Surgical Pathology

What drew you to a career in histology?

I have always had a fascination with microscopy since a child. Prior to becoming a histology technician, I was a nurse for 20 years. As a nurse, I saw how important it was for biopsies to be processed efficiently so that physicians could quickly diagnose patients. Histology is a perfect fit for someone interested in science and helping patients receive the best care possible, which aligns with my career goals.

What does a typical day entail for you in the lab as a histology technician (histotechnician or histotech)?

First, in the morning, all rush specimens are removed from the tissue processors, embedded in paraffin wax molds, sectioned in microtomy (the process of cutting specimens), and placed on slides. Then, we put the slides on our stainer, which stains the tissue with hematoxylin and eosin (types of dye). These stain different parts of the cells, allowing pathologists to make a diagnosis. Additional slides may be cut and stained with advanced tests to detect specific antibodies and other abnormalities in the tissue.

What part of the histology process do you find most fascinating?

I am fascinated by the different types of stains we can use to highlight specific parts of tissue. We have hundreds of different stains that pathologists use to narrow down possible diagnoses.

How does your work in the lab make a difference for patients or what is the most rewarding part of your job?

Every biopsy needs a histotech to process the tissue into a slide that can be read by the pathologist. Without efficient and accurate histology processing of tissue, physicians would not be able to diagnose many conditions. I have seen firsthand the importance of this process for patients. A few years ago, my wife was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. She had multiple biopsies, which were processed through histology. Information gathered from the multiple biopsies has helped physicians determine the appropriate treatment for her disease.

What糖心传媒檚 one thing people might be surprised to learn about what you do?

We cut tissue to a thickness as small as 2 microns, which is 25 times thinner than a human hair.

If you had to describe your work in three words, what words would you choose?

Rewarding, challenging, and detailed.

What is the lab culture?

We all work well as a team to ensure every specimen is processed efficiently and accurately. There is always someone willing to help answer any questions. We all understand the importance of what we do and how this work affects patient outcomes.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in this field and what skills are important?

There is a lot to learn in histology, which can be overwhelming at first and can easily lead to discouragement. But don糖心传媒檛 give up. Cutting tissue at 2-4 microns is a highly technical skill that takes many hours of practice to master.

How would you describe the support provided by leadership and your coworkers at URMC?

The leadership is excellent in our lab. Each week we have a huddle to discuss how things are going in the lab. We discuss ways to improve efficiency and how to fix any issues that may arise. Leadership listens to suggestions we have to improve things throughout the lab. We also hold monthly group meetings and one-on-one meetings to discuss topics in more detail. We all help each other and work well as a team. I truly enjoy working in this lab.

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Care you can count on糖心传媒擬eet members of our pharmacy technician team

Da’Ishana Williams

Pharmacy Tech
Inpatient Pharmacy at Strong Hospital

How would you describe a typical day as a pharmacy technician (tech)?

My bustling day starts with reviewing, delivering, and preparing medication orders, and ensuring accurate dispensing of prescriptions for hospital patients while under the pharmacist糖心传媒檚 supervision. I spend a lot of time managing inventory, as well as compounding, preparing, and delivering medications all over the hospital. I also answer phone calls that come to the pharmacy. While logging more than 10,000 steps a day, this role demands precision, teamwork, and effective communication to support patient care, safety, and coordination with healthcare staff throughout the day.

How did you get started as a pharmacy tech?

I came across the pharmacy tech position on Indeed. I applied with no experience, no knowledge of anything pharmacy-related, and they welcomed me to the Inpatient Pharmacy team. I have learned so much here at the hospital and not just about pharmacy.

What part of your work do you find most rewarding?

The most rewarding part of my role is knowing that my work directly contributes to improving patient health and safety. This provides me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Having the opportunity to work as part of a healthcare team and make a difference in patients糖心传媒� lives, often during their vulnerable moments, gives me a strong sense of pride and accomplishment in my role. Plus, gaining knowledge and meeting new people are always WINs.

What is one thing people might not realize about pharmacy technicians, or what is one task that people might not realize is important?

Most people don糖心传媒檛 see what we do but, pharm techs are the backbone of the hospital’s ability to provide reliable medical treatment in a timely manner. Inpatient pharmacy techs prioritize accuracy and safety, and some preparations require time to ensure no errors compromise patient care. For example, if a med is a STAT (timely request), it might take at least 10 minutes to prepare and deliver; in some cases, it requires even more time to get the medication sent on its way. That糖心传媒檚 why communication is important for techs, pharmacists, and patient caregivers.

How do you work with pharmacists in support of patient care?

Pharmacy technicians and pharmacists have close partnerships, allowing the pharmacists to focus on clinical oversight and decision making while techs ensure accuracy and efficiency. The teamwork between them helps to reduce errors, streamline workflows, and ensure patients receive safe and timely treatments.

What skills or strengths help you most in your role?

Attention to detail, teamwork, organizational and communication skills, customer service, technical proficiency, and adaptability to anything, including the stress of workload and change, have helped me excel in the pharmacy technician role.

What advice would you give to someone considering this field?

Becoming a pharmacy technician opens many doors for career growth and opportunities in healthcare. And, bonus, you gain hands-on experience!

Janiya (Courtney) Vassell

Pharmacy Tech Trainee
Inpatient Pharmacy at Strong Hospital

How would you describe a typical day as a pharmacy technician (tech) trainee?

I arrive for my shift at 8:30 p.m. and I begin completing cart orders for the following morning. I also restock supplies and read new order labels as new orders are being dispensed.

How do you feel your role makes a difference for patients?

I think our Inpatient Pharmacy is the backbone of the hospital. We fill medications in a timely manner, reload Pyxis (automated medical dispensing system) machines if they are out of stock, and replace medications as needed.

What part of your work do you find most rewarding?

I appreciate the flexibility my schedule provides me.

What is one thing people might not realize about pharmacy technicians, or what is one task that people might not realize is important?

A lot of the medications have similar names, dosages, or even strengths. It makes the job 1000% less stressful knowing that we have a strong attention to safety and our systems also help prevent errors.

What skills or strengths help you most in your role?

Attention to detail is a huge asset.

How would you describe your team or the pharmacy work environment?

My overnight team is full of humor and people who don’t mind lending a hand to complete tasks.

What advice would you give to someone considering this field?

The trainee program provides听hands-on experience, and the Inpatient Pharmacy staff are more than willing to help you succeed.

What糖心传媒檚 the best advice you糖心传媒檝e received in your career?

Everything doesn’t need to be stored in your head, and never be afraid to ask follow-up questions.

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A taste of campus dining糖心传媒擥et to know members of our Campus Dining Services team

JayQuan Coley

Danforth Dining Center
Cook Helper

What does a typical working day in dining services entail for you?

I spend my time putting together a delicious menu and connecting with all of my students. I enjoy seeing their smiling faces.

What do you enjoy most about serving students?

I honestly love building connections. Students come from around the world to attend our University. So, for the next four years, I enjoy making them feel at home.

What is one thing you want students to know about your dining service team?

We are here for you! Never be afraid to ask for something.

How do you feel your work makes a difference for students?

Throughout my day, I do a lot of engaging. I always make sure my students eat well, thus preparing them for a long day.

What do you enjoy most about working at the University?

The opportunities for growth. Resources provided by the University of Rochester are beneficial to staff, students, and families.

What糖心传媒檚 one thing you糖心传媒檝e learned from your coworkers or the students you support?

I learned to further my cooking skills by observing experienced colleagues.

Who or what keeps you motivated every day?

My daughter is a huge part of my motivation every day. She attends elementary school in Brighton. She is in the fourth grade. Seeing her transition each year warms my heart.

Coffee or tea (or something else), what gets you through your shift?

Honestly, on a scale from 1 to 10, I wake up at 10! Once I arrive at work, I can sometimes be a bit too much for my staff.

Anna Kendrick

Commissary
Stockkeeper

What does a typical working day in dining services entail for you?

I receive packages and ensure they are situated in the proper places.

What do you enjoy most about serving students?

Seeing their smiles.

What is one thing you want students to know about your dining service team?

We have a great team that wants the best for our students.

If you could give students one tip for dining on campus, what would it be?

Take time to go online and view the menu.

What do you enjoy most about working at the University?

I enjoy knowing that the students are fed a great meal.

Who or what keeps you motivated every day?

I motivate myself to have a great day.

Coffee or tea (or something else), what gets you through your shift?

Mountain dew.

Added comment: I love my job!

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Supporting surgical excellence糖心传媒擬eet a member of our surgical technologist team

Donabel Bona-Hueber

Certified Surgical Technologist
URMC Operating Room

How and when did you get into the field of surgical technology?

I’ve always been in healthcare, but it听was not until 2018 that I stumbled upon the surgical tech program at MCC. In 2019, I started the program in my 40s and graduated with honors in 2021. Ever since, I have been with URMC听and piloted听the Primary Service Surgical Technologist role, ensuring specialized support in complex reconstructive and facial, hand, and leg trauma cases.

What does a typical working day entail for you as a surgical technologist (tech)?

I arrive before sunrise to review the surgical schedule and set up a sterile field with precision糖心传媒攅very instrument, suture, and implant in its place. Once surgery begins, I work shoulder to shoulder with surgeons, anticipating their next move and passing instruments with seamless teamwork. I focus on patient safety and keeping the surgical flow smooth. In between cases, I reset the room and do it all over again. Often, I’m teaching new orientees as well.

How do you stay focused and prepared during procedures?

Long hours and call shifts are very challenging, but it is my responsibility to be safe and keep the patients safe. That’s what keeps me steady, no matter how complex the case.

What is something people might not realize that surgical techs do?

Certified surgical technologists (CSTs) are guardians of sterility. We constantly watch for and prevent breaks in sterility. CSTs keep the operating room (OR) flowing by anticipating the surgeon’s needs, so the procedures move safely and efficiently. CSTs learn hundreds of instruments and complex services. We are trouble shooters and problem solvers. Most importantly, we advocate for patient safety and ensure nothing is left behind.

What糖心传媒檚 one thing about your career that makes you proud?

After long hours, I step out of the OR knowing I made a direct impact on patients’ lives and that I supported my surgical team. I can sleep at night knowing I did the best I could for my patients’ well-being, amidst any odds, even though they may never see me.

What advice would you give someone starting in this field and what skills are important?

Never stop learning and always advocate for your patients. Attention to detail, anticipation, adaptability, and teamwork are important in the OR.

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