November 2015, Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology

Ask any of Shelia Bautista’s colleagues about what it’s like to work with her, and you’ll be met with effusive praise.

That’s because Bautista’s work ethic is legendary among her peers and colleagues in the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. When problems arise, she finds solutions, and she routinely goes above and beyond her job description. “She’s such a gift, I wish I could clone her,” said Division Manager Susan Lydick, who has worked with Bautista for over a year. “Sheila is a huge asset, willing to tackle any project and help out in multiple areas that aren’t part of her job description,” Lydick continued. “And she always has a kind word and a sense of humor to ease the stress of the day.”

Like many administrative associates, Bautista has a wide range of responsibilities. She supports five full-time faculty members, handling their calendars, travel arrangements, and schedules. She also oversees the endoscopy rotations schedule and the master schedule, and works on special projects as needed. As Clinical Research Coordinator Ankita Dubey explained: “Sheila has always gone above and beyond her call of duty to ensure division needs are being met on a much larger scale than what she is technically responsible for. She has filled in as role of a coordinator, taking the time to learn and set up budgets for a clinical trial that would not have gotten off the ground without the completion of this time-sensitive step.”

Despite her full workload, Bautista always makes time for other employees, from buying a busy faculty member lunch, to bringing cold medicine to a sick co-worker. “She is always willing to help, and is the ideal team player,” said David Limsui, MD, a clinical assistant professor.

Bautista, who joined the Department of Medicine 15 months ago, enjoys the sense of community and support she receives at Stanford. “I love everyone I work with,” she said. “Management supports my desire to always learn new things, meet new challenges, move forward, and advance in my career. Most of all I feel privileged that I get to be a part of all the innovation and discovery that transpires here.”

Outside of work, Bautista attends school full-time. When she’s not studying, she uses her limited free time to spend time with her family, watch movies, and read. She’s also an “absolute sports fan” who roots for Bay Area teams like the San Francisco 49ers, the Golden State Warriors, and the San Francisco Giants.