Stanford Surgery Holds 2026 Staff Retreat

Stanford Surgery administrative staff gathered this past Monday for the annual department retreat. This year’s theme was “Better Together, Connected by Gratitude.”

“We wanted a true team-based event—full of competitive activities that brought together colleagues from every functional area. It was energizing to reconnect, laugh, and build camaraderie across our roles,” said Department Vice Chair and Director of Finance & Administration Stephanie Edelman. “I’m so grateful for the chance to have everyone together for the day and strengthen our connections. We are, in fact, better together.”

The retreat included get-to-know-you games, team building challenges, and Guest Speaker Allison Kluger, a lecturer at Stanford's Graduate School of Business. 

“The ice breaker bingo introductions were super fun; we really had to speak to lots of folks to fill up our cards!” said Lisa Taylor, who serves as the administrative assistant to the Division of General Surgery Chief. “Our speaker was exceptional; I wish my 22-year-old self was in the audience.”  

The day was filled with lively conversations and collaborative problem-solving, as staff from various divisions exchanged ideas and shared their experiences. Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn from one another and gain new perspectives on departmental challenges. 

“This was my first staff retreat! I was able to meet several staff members in clinical research and discuss our different research projects and struggles,” said Elton Ortiz, a Clinical Research Coordinator Associate in the Division of Pediatric Surgery. “We brainstormed some possible solutions to the obstacles we faced, including the CRC community of practice, volunteer services, and more. It was super helpful to connect with fellow CRCs!”

Overall, the retreat fostered a sense of unity and mutual support, with attendees leaving inspired to apply what they learned and continue building bridges across teams.

"I enjoyed meeting colleagues across the department—especially those I email regularly. As a remote employee, it was great to finally put faces to names," said Faculty Affair Administrator Felicia Laje. "Awesome job and a huge thanks to the retreat committee (Stephanie, Yvette, Tamara, Eugene, Mercedes, and Nancy) for organizing a wonderful event. I am looking forward to the next one."

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About Stanford Surgery

The Stanford University Department of Surgery is dedicated to inventing the future of surgical care through:

• pioneering cutting-edge research, 
• developing the next generation of leaders, and 
• healing through incomparable surgical skills and compassion. 

To learn more, please visit surgery.stanford.edu