Staff

Graduate Student Kristi Guerrero smiles for her staff photo.

Kristi Dietert Awarded Grant Position from the Translational Science Training (TST) TL1 Program at UT Health

May 5, 2021

The Department of Neurosurgery is proud to share the news that research trainee Kristi Dietert was recently awarded a grant position from the Translational Science Training (TST) TL1 Program at UT Health. The goal of this program is to enhance the quality and scope of the doctoral research experience by offering interdisciplinary training and mentorship […]



Staff members gather together over a Zoom call to wish Dr. Sun farewell.

Farewell Gathering for Dr. Derrick Sun

May 3, 2021

Team members from the Department of Neurosurgery gathered over a Zoom call to bid farewell to their friend and colleague, Derrick Sun, M.D. After team members took turns recounting memories, Chair John Floyd, M.D., presented Dr. Sun with a shining star memento and a pair of old-fashioned San Antonio spurs. We all wish Dr. Sun […]



Marissa Velez smiling for her staff photo.

Neurosurgery Shining Stars Award Winner – Marissa Velez

April 28, 2021

We are pleased to share the news that the winner of our Neurosurgery Shining Stars Award for the month of March is Marissa Velez. Marissa is a referral coordinator who has been with us for the past three years. Co-workers describe Marissa as a kind-hearted team player who is generous with her time and great […]




Neurosurgery Shining Stars Award Winner – Mary Ann Barragan

February 4, 2021

We are pleased to share the news that the winner of our Neurosurgery Shining Stars Award for the month of December is Mary Ann Barragan. Mary Ann has been with the Department of Neurosurgery for ten years. She originally served as a senior administrative assistant while finishing her nursing degree. She went on to work […]




Neurosurgery Shining Stars Award Winner – Christina Lozano

January 8, 2021

We are pleased to share the news that the winner of our Neurosurgery Shining Stars Award for the month of December is Christina Lozano. Christina is a front desk receptionist who has been a member of our department since 2018. Her co-workers describe her as detail-oriented and always willing to help others. Her thoughtfulness and […]



Retirement Farewell – Esther Nañez and Joan Seyle

December 31, 2020

The Department of Neurosurgery recently wished a fond farewell to Esther Nañez and Joan Seyle, two employees who are leaving UT Health to begin their retirement after many dedicated years of service. Esther and Joan have been with the university for 28 years and 15 years, respectively. Esther worked in our department as a senior […]


Neurosurgery Shining Stars Award Winners – Jennifer Avilez and Nicole Postell

December 17, 2020

We are pleased to share the news that two of our employees tied for winner of the Neurosurgery Shining Stars Award for the month of November: Jennifer Avilez and Nicole Postell. Jennifer joined our team in 2018 as a medical assistant. Her coworkers describe her as a hard worker who is organized, knowledgeable, and kind […]


Maria Paz smiles while posing for a photo.

Neurosurgery Shining Stars Award Winner – Maria Paz

August 13, 2020

We are pleased to announce that the winner of our very first Neurosurgery Shining Stars Award is Maria Paz. The Shining Stars Award was established to recognize the efforts of staff members who demonstrate exceptional dedication to our department. Maria has been a valued member of our team since 2016. She started with us as […]



Ashleigh Johns poses for a photo in a white labcoat

Welcome, Ashleigh Johns!

July 27, 2020

The Department of Neurosurgery is pleased to announce that Ashleigh Johns, MSN, APRN, AGACNP-BC, has joined our neurocritical care team as a nurse practitioner. Ms. Johns attended Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in microbiology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Texas […]



Staff Social Media Series – Pets

May 14, 2020

During these troubling times, the companionship of pets can be a source of great comfort and stress relief. This week, team members from the Department of Neurosurgery expressed appreciation for their furry (and not-so-furry) friends by sharing these photos with us. We hope they make you smile.