Inspiring the Next Generation of Health Care Leaders

MANSFIELD, TEX. – Each day Cynthia Garza, director of surgical services at Texas Health Hospital Mansfield, lives out the mission of “Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ.” Garza’s journey into health care began later in life when she was almost 30, enrolling in college while raising a family. Her passion for nursing, and belief that it was her calling from God, influenced her decision to enter the field.

Texas Health Mansfield’s culture was a key factor in Garza’s decision to join the organization. “The service standards ‘Keep Me Safe,’ ‘Make It Easy,’ ‘Love Me’ and ‘Own It’ align with my values. And the abundance of support that I receive from my leader and peers truly makes my career choice with Texas Health Mansfield the best choice by far,” said Garza.

Garza, who will obtain a doctorate in nursing practice in May shares her educational journey with everyone she can, especially women, in hopes of encouraging them to pursue their goals. “Just the other day, a colleague told me I inspired her to go back to school. I feel that being Latina, in health care, in leadership, while obtaining the highest level of nursing degree, can inspire women who do not believe that they can do it to put the wheels in motion,” said Garza.

Garza’s advice to aspiring women considering a career in health care is simple: “Go for it!” She believes that women have a natural instinct to be caretakers and should embrace any challenges they encounter as opportunities for growth. Her story shows the impact women can make in the field and highlights the importance of encouraging one another along the way.