The Woman of the Year Gala is the premier annual event for the Women Healthcare Executives of Northern California. Each year, we gather to celebrate visionary leaders who demonstrate courageous leadership, clinical excellence, and a steadfast commitment to transforming healthcare.
This evening is more than a celebration of achievement; it is a powerful coming together of our community to mentor, inspire, and pave the way for those who will lead healthcare into the next generation.
Interested in attending in future event like the Woman of the Year Gala?
Katrina Ascencio-Holmes is a nationally recognized nurse executive and a bold advocate for healthcare excellence. As the System Chief Nursing Officer at Sutter Health, she leads enterprise-wide strategy with a focus on clinical excellence and workforce well-being. Beyond her executive role, Katrina serves as a National Champion for Women’s Health with the American Heart Association, where she is a "Woman of Impact" dedicated to advancing cardiovascular equity and health outcomes for women.
A courageous change agent, Katrina is celebrated for challenging the status quo and fostering inclusive, high-performing teams. She is a dedicated mentor who balances visionary leadership with a profound investment in the people and communities she serves. By translating purpose into action, Katrina exemplifies the spirit of the Woman of the Year award, serving as a powerful role model for the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Katrina Ascencio-Holmes
RN, CNOR, BSN, MHA
Interested in attending in future event like the Woman of the Year Gala?
Disha Goel, D.O. Candidate
Touro University
California College of Osteopathic medicine
Disha is a rising fourth-year osteopathic medical student at Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine. Her journey reflects a strong commitment to service, leadership, and scholarship through her work with underserved populations in free clinics, research contributions with multiple publications, and leadership roles.
Courtney Nguyen
University of San Francisco
Courtney is a third-year nursing student at the University of San Francisco pursuing her BSN. Her passion for healthcare is rooted in her lived experiences—witnessing firsthand the impact of access, trust, and compassionate care within underserved communities. These experiences have shaped her aspiration to become a Clinical Nurse Leader, where she aims to strengthen both patient care and the systems that support it.
Dr. Carla Wicks, MD
Chief Strategic Officer,
tHE cALIFORNIA eNDOWMENT
Dr. Wicks is recognized for her sustained leadership, measurable impact, and unwavering commitment to advancing health equity and inclusive excellence.
dEBORAH mURO, bsn, mn, chcio
Chief Information Officer, El Camino Health
Deborah is a visionary executive who is redefining how technology advances patient care. Her leadership exemplifies innovation, courage, and positive impact within healthcare.
