Your name, title and department. How long have you worked here?
My name is Maria De Los Santos and I serve as an Ambulatory Representative within the Psychology Service at Texas Children’s Hospital. I joined the Texas Children’s Psychology family in August of 2021.
Tell us how you found out you won a super star award.
My supervisor, Jennifer Zavala, notified me via email of the award. Ms. Zavala congratulated me on a well-deserved award and informed me of an upcoming celebration in my honor.
What does it mean to be recognized for the hard work you do? How has the organization helped you achieve your personal and professional goals?
This award is very meaningful to me and it inspires me to continue working hard to provide great service. Receiving this special recognition is an honor and it is a testament to my efforts, growth, and dedication to patients at Texas Children’s.
I am grateful for Texas Children’s leadership for their continued support in my growth at the hospital. I have had the honor of receiving support for new learning and new responsibilities. Every step of the way, leaders have dedicated time to teach, to challenge me and to provide the opportunity for independence to demonstrate my growth. The organization has helped me strengthen my communication skills, as well as provide team huddles where my voice/perspective is heard and respected.
What do you think makes someone at Texas Children’s a super star?
A super star is someone who goes above and beyond for patients and their families. This individual takes time to listen and to advocate for the patient. They ensure that the patient’s needs are top priority for everyone which may mean they are taking extra steps or needing to navigate barriers to provide the best patient encounter.
What is your motivation for going above and beyond every day at work?
My motivation is our patients and their loved ones. I aim for every family to know that they are able to call Texas Children’s and someone will listen to their needs, assist them the best way possible and will go above and beyond to help them. This is very important in my role in behavioral health. I strive to assist patients in scheduling and to route parents to the appropriate service to reduce the number of needs for call transfers.
What is the best thing about working at Texas Children’s?
At Texas Children’s we are a community and become a family regardless of title or job responsibilities. I appreciate the partnership, the communication and the respect to partner with other employees to serve patients. I am confident that even if we don’t know an answer or how to complete a task, I know I can contact my team members or providers and receive assistance.
What does it mean to you that everyone at Texas Children’s is considered a leader? What is your leadership definition?
Texas Children’s recognizing everyone as a leader highlights the value that the institution places on every employee, every lived experience, and every perspective. This value also suggests that everyone is respected and that all employees are equal regardless of their titles.
My definition of a leader is a person who is able to encourage, communicate and influence.
Anything else you want to share?
I am thankful for everyone that believed in me along my years at Texas Children’s. I first worked at the gift shop in 2018 and then joined the psychology division since 2021. I am grateful for everyone who supported me on this transition and look forward to continued partnership. I appreciate the dedication that Texas Children’s has for their employees, patients and their families.