These Healthcare Heroes Make a Difference in Westchester in 2025

Dr. Shailja Mukhtyar

Family Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology AAPI/FIPA/Catholic Medical Center/True Health/MedExel Urgent Care

When both of your parents are physicians, and your extended family includes several more doctors, the decision to practice medicine is an obvious choice. Dr. Shailja Mukhtyar, a general practitioner and New Rochelle resident, has continued the tradition with a career dedicated to treating and caring for patients with tremendous compassion.

She has served as acting director at Riverdale Nursing home in the Bronx, held multiple urgent care roles, continues to make house calls to the homebound and elderly, and practices gynecological and prenatal care. “I treat the patient, not the test,” says Dr. Mukhtyar. “I am aware of cutting-edge technology, but I also add holistic findings from homeopathic methods and principles of Ayurveda, and I am also a yoga teacher.” On top of her medical duties, she directs the Mukhtyar Family Scholarship & Charitable Foundation, supporting children locally and in communities in India.

Incorporating elements from her Indian culture and medicinal practices has shaped the doctor’s philosophy of care. “A healthy mind and body go together, and sometimes American medicine just works on treating the problem while Indian ancient herbal medicine works on preventing the problem and fostering health,” says the doctor.

Regginald Jordan

Vice President Clinical Services & Executive Director, Montefiore Mount Vernon Hospital and Montefiore Wakefield

“Health is wealth,” says Regginald Jordan, Vice President and Executive Director at Montefiore Mount Vernon Hospital. Promoting wellness for all, with a focus on community-centered and equitable care has informed the career of this respected administrator. He is leading his hospital through a planned transformation that will modernize its facilities, increase its capacity, and create new jobs, thanks to a $41 million capital investment from New York State.

Jordan, who was raised in Miami, initially pursued a career in social work following in the footsteps of a beloved aunt, but all paths led him to the healthcare field. “I realized that healthcare was an area where I could make a tangible difference, particularly for community members who often struggle with obtaining it,” he says. Outside of work, he loves construction and design as well as watching his favorite basketball team, the Lakers.

Jordan’s vision is to continue operational improvements, bring together diverse stakeholders, and ensure that care delivered by the hospitals he oversees is responsive to the needs of those it serves. “I’ve learned the power of active listening and empathy,” he adds. “In healthcare, you work with people from all walks of life, often during their most vulnerable moments. The ability to truly hear people has been invaluable.”

Dr. Ronnie Myers

Dean, Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) Touro College of Dental Medicine

For Dr. Ronnie Myers, compassion is at the heart of his work. “I try to provide a humanistic, welcoming environment for the students who seek their dental education at Touro,” says Myers, the Dean of the Touro College of Dental Medicine [TCDM] and a Doctor of Dental Surgery. “It is not just about the technical aspect of providing surgical and restorative dental care, but it’s about being patient-centric.”

Myers has been making good on this philosophy at TCDM, leading the charge to build a special needs dental clinic focused on aiding patients and families with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Passionate about training students to care for these marginalized individuals, Myers oversaw virtually every aspect of the new clinic, from fundraising and design to staffing and more.

As Dean, Myers has spearheaded the school’s advancement by forging partnerships with community health centers, hospitals, and dental organizations while collaborating with elected officials and community partners to develop programs that improve outcomes for both the school’s students and area residents. According to Vice Dean David Katz, DDS, “Ronnie’s leadership has not only propelled TCDM as one of the finest dental schools in the country, but his dedication to humanistic principals has created an environment of superior learning, teaching and camaraderie.”

Dr. Mahtab Motieian

Internist, United Hebrew Willow Towers and affiliated with Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital

For Ardsley resident Dr. Mahtab Motieian, being a physician means giving her absolute best each day caring for patients and families.

“I see each patient as a human being with emotions, not just a medical case and my role goes beyond treatment—I am there for them in every moment they need help, offering both medical and emotional support,” the doctor says. With a focus on geriatric care as the attending physician for short-term rehabilitative care at United Hebrew Willow Towers Assisted Living, Dr. Motieian always goes the extra mile to support the residents’ recovery and overall well-being as they regain mobility and confidence.

“I see each patient as a human being with emotions, not just a medical case,” says Dr. Mahtab Motieian.”

Throughout her life, she has drawn inspiration from her mother. “My mom is a strong, determined woman, a business owner, and someone who never backs down from a challenge. She taught me and my sister to focus on solutions rather than dwell on problems, a mindset that has shaped both my personal and professional life,” says Dr. Motieian.

Striving for excellence began as a teenager when the young scientist became passionate about physics and mathematics. “I was a winner in the Physics Olympiad when I was in middle school, and I loved studying quantum physics—even though it has nothing to do with my job now, it remains a subject that fascinates me,” she adds.

Dr. Dean Straff

Director of Emergency Services, White Plains Hospital

In the world of emergency medicine, time is not just a factor—it’s everything. Under the watchful eye of Dr. Dean Straff, White Plains Hospital (WPH) has honed the art of timely care, transforming the county’s busiest emergency department into a model of efficiency and compassion. By enforcing a median time of just 11 minutes from patient arrival to being seen by a physician, Dr. Straff’s leadership ensures that critical moments are never wasted, giving all patients the best possible chance at recovery.

Dr. Straff first joined WPH in 2016, working as the Associate Director of Education and Simulation and was appointed Director of Emergency Services in December 2020. During his tenure, the hospital’s Emergency Department has experienced a surge in patient visits, from approximately 57,000 annually to over 85,000 in 2024. Under Dr. Straff’s stewardship, WPH has expanded its capacity to handle this influx and also set a new standard in efficiency, receiving a five-star quality rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for three consecutive years and consistently earning “A” grades in patient safety from the Leapfrog Group.

Dr. Straff also serves as the Medical Director of WPH’s Armonk Urgent Care Center, and works as the Health Director for the summer camp run by the City of White Plains Recreation and Parks Department. For him, this is all just part of living the dream. “I knew I wanted to be a doctor when I was a very young, he says. “The ability to understand the human body and use that knowledge to help people has always felt like a calling.”

Diana Valdes, RN

Visiting Nurse Services of Westchester

When it comes to healthcare, Diana Valdes knows that the industry is about more than just illness. Caring for her sick mother—a dentist who worked in both Cuba and the United States—inspired Valdes to learn about root causes, disease prevention, and ultimately, healing. With over 25 years of experience working in trauma, cardiovascular, and wound care units, Valdes finds that the most rewarding element of her job at Visiting Nurse Services of Westchester is what she calls a “miraculous” transition—when a patient who started off extremely unwell and incapacitated becomes healthy. “It is also rewarding to educate and guide the family and patient through the various phases of illness to wholeness,” she adds.

If she didn’t pursue nursing, Valdes says she would be coaching track. “In my youth, I was an elite track star; I have developed champions and coached over 1000 children.”

The medical field, however, is her true calling. “Disease and illness do not discriminate,” she says. “It does not care about culture, race, religion, gender or if you’re rich or poor. Life can change in the blink of an eye. This awareness allows me to be compassionate about everyone I must care for.”

Dr. Vikas Grover

Chair of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, New York Medical College School of Health Sciences and Practice

In the field of rehabilitation sciences and speech-language pathology, Dr. Vikas Grover is a distinguished leader and innovator. His impressive career spans research, clinical practice, and academic leadership. The doctor says he is inspired by the wish to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives by helping them communicate and connect with others. “Empowering others to find their voice, both literally and figuratively, is incredibly rewarding.” Dr. Grover says. As a certified member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, he is deeply committed to working with linguistically diverse populations by training multicultural and multilingual parents and helping professionals to better serve these vulnerable populations. Intrigued by the fields of neuroscience, psychology, and human behavior, Dr. Grover regularly schools himself in studies on neuroscience and decision-making.

“Speech-Language Pathology is about so much more than just speech—it is about helping people find ways to express themselves, whether through words, gestures, or alternative communication methods—and it is also about improving swallowing, thinking skills, and social connections. Every person we work with is unique, and our work is tailored to meet their specific needs.”

Angel Herrera

Unified Administrator, Montefiore Einstein Rehabilitation Medicine and Burke Rehabilitation Hospital

When he started his medical career as a night clerk at an emergency room in the South Bronx, Angel Herrera witnessed the confusion and challenges that a distressed family could face when it comes to accessing healthcare.

Now, he’s the Unified Administrator for Montefiore Einstein’s Rehabilitation Medicine department and Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, overseeing the expansion of several pulmonary and outpatient therapy programs. Through his steadfast leadership and dedication to the hospital’s growth, which included opening Westchester’s first and only accredited electrodiagnostic lab, Herrera works toward the goal of making these health services accessible to all.

Herrera’s biggest inspirations are his mother—a retired physician—and all parents who take several trains and buses just to get their children to their appointments. He partners with local teams to develop sports medicine and community engagement programs, and he’s encouraged by the para-athletes and recovering stroke patients who participate beside him. “It’s rewarding to watch my investments grow, and I do not mean financial,” he says. “My investments are the people and projects to which I devote my time and energy.”

Valerie Vermiglio-Kohn, DNP, RN, CRRN

Vice President, Nursing, Chief Nursing Officer, Burke Rehabilitation

Innovation has always been at the forefront of Valerie Vermiglio-Kohn’s role as Chief Nursing Officer and VP of Nursing Services at Burke Rehabilitation. While leading the organization’s more than 300-strong nursing staff and clinician workforce, which works 24 hours a day to care for patients, Vermiglio-Kohn has continually pushed for cutting-edge technology and creative solutions.

For instance, Vermiglio-Kohn spearheaded the introduction of SMART Beds, which help prevent falls by displaying safety information on the floor, allowing staff to quickly intervene when necessary. This has resulted in a fall rate at Burke’s that is consistently lower than the national benchmark, according to the Exchanged Quality Data for Rehabilitation.

She has also led an organization-wide effort to secure Burke’s designation by the Magnet Recognition Program, which is a program led by the American Nurses Association that recognizes organizations where nursing leaders align their strategic goals to improve patient outcomes—a designation that officially acknowledges Burke’s renowned dedication to excellence in this field.

For Vermiglio-Kohn, the result of her hard work is a better life for Burke’s patients. “As a rehabilitation nurse, we see people transformed by their experience in our hospital,” she shares. “The comprehensive medical, nursing, and therapy programs change lives and most patients are able to return to the community and rejoin their families; our hope is that they return to them with as much independence as possible.”

Pam Thomas, RN

Nurse Supervisor, Osborn Home Care

From a young age, Pam Thomas knew she wanted to be a nurse, with the most impactful moments being when she watched her grandparents in their final days “receiving nursing care in their homes, where they had peace and familiarity.” Building off that experience, Thomas’ approach to care is rooted in empathy. Whether she’s attending to the physical needs of her patients or providing emotional support during challenging moments, she ensures that everyone being treated by Osborn Home Care receives the highest level of service with dignity, comfort, and respect. Her unique ability to address both the medical and emotional aspects of care is what sets her apart. Families of those under her care often express their heartfelt gratitude, praising her for offering not just medical expertise but also a calming presence that helps ease anxiety in difficult times.

Beyond her hands-on care, Thomas is a remarkable leader. As a supervisor, she oversees a team of home health aides and nurses, giving clear guidance and strong support. Her leadership style fosters collaboration and teamwork, ensuring that everyone under her direction feels valued and motivated to do their best. When times get tough, she channels back to her biggest inspiration, her grandmother, who passed away at 98 years old. “She was an honest-to-goodness woman who could have complained a lot, but she never did,” says Thomas. “Her positivity inspires me when negativity is bearing down.”

Dr. Mary Rose Puthiyamadam

Adult Primary Care, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Open Door Family Medical Center and Northwell Health Phelps Hospital Family Medicine Residency Program

Inspired by her mother’s story of arriving in America with just $8 and a dream of becoming a nurse, Dr. Mary Rose Puthiyamadam was motivated to pursue a career in medicine. For the past twenty years, the adult primary caregiver has focused on providing healthcare to the communities of Ossining, Sleepy Hollow, and Tarrytown—as well as areas around the world—just as her mother did.

She loves to travel, and has visited Latin America, Africa, and India to promote the welfare of young women, childhood obesity awareness, and other global health issues. “My role is multifaceted, and it’s both an honor and a privilege,” Dr. Puthiyamadam says. “I’ve been dedicated to serving the underserved, providing a broad spectrum of care. I’ve watched children grow into young adults and have been there with patients during the end of their lives.”

Not only is Dr. Puthiyamadam dedicated to helping others—she wants to spread her knowledge about healthy living. She earned her master’s degree in international health and visits local schools to educate children on adolescent health, COVID precautions, and more. Dr. Puthiyamadam is endlessly inspired by the hardworking healthcare professionals in her family and says the most rewarding part of her career is “building relationships with patients, colleagues, and the entire care team.”

Dr. Shajiuddin Faraz Mohammed

Psychiatrist, Zen Psychiatry PLLC

Dr. Shajiuddin Faraz Mohammed’s career in psychiatry has been defined by the improvement of those who come to him for aid. “Seeing patients make progress—whether it’s a child finding her voice, an adolescent learning to manage emotions, or an adult overcoming a long-standing struggle—is incredibly fulfilling,” says Dr. Mohammed. “My patients’ resilience, courage, and ability to heal, even in the face of adversity, inspire me every day.”

This inspiration has gone to good use, as Dr. Mohammed treats children, adolescents, and adults out of his private practice, Zen Psychiatry PLLC, as well as at the Putnam and Northern Westchester BOCES and the nonprofit JCCA. He is also the current president-elect of West-Hudson Psychiatry Society.

Fluent in English, Hindi, and Urdu, Dr. Mohammed strives to make his patients feel heard and seen, working with individuals of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations. The efficacy of his treatment likely arises from Mohammed’s deep desire to continuously help those in need. “Mental health has always been my passion,” says Dr. Mohammed. “The ability to help people navigate complex emotional and psychological challenges while fostering resilience and growth is what drew me to psychiatry.”

Dr. Arnar Geirsson

Director of the Cardiovascular Institute, Director of the Surgical Heart Valve Program, NYP Columbia University Irving Medical Center

An expert in minimally invasive cardiac surgery and valve surgery, and a specialist in robotic mitral valve repair, this renowned doctor is literally a lifesaver. Dr. Arnar Geirsson, a native of Iceland, honed his skills at Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania, and now serves as Director of the Cardiovascular Institute and Surgical Heart Valve Program at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

“To become a technical expert in cardiac surgery requires lots of time and dedication and requires having an excellent team dedicated to patient care both inside and outside of the operating room,” Dr. Geirsson says. Under his leadership, his Columbia team reached a milestone, having performed over 100 robotic heart procedures. On the research front, he is doing groundbreaking work in mitral valve prolapse and aortic aneurysm disease, further advancing cardiac surgery.

“When an operation goes as planned and I have successfully done a complex procedure that will prolong and improve a patient’s life, as well as their quality of life, it is very rewarding,” he says.

Our Healthcare Heroes: These 13 incredible individuals have made helping others the focus of their life’s work. They may be your neighbors, healthcare providers, or leaders in the communities where you live and work. These heroes represent the pillars of our community and are integral to the quality of life we have come to expect in Westchester. We are honored to shine a spotlight on their exceptional commitment and celebrate the lasting impact these healthcare heroes have made.

Our Method: We typically receive anywhere from 80 to 120 Healthcare Heroes nominations each year, submitted by family, friends, patients, coworkers, managers, hospital CEOs and presidents, and even public officials. The collection represents a diverse roster that includes not only doctors and nurses but also therapists, executives, entrepreneurs, and public servants. From this group, our six judges independently selected their top-tier candidates from redacted nominations that revealed neither the names nor the current professional affiliations of the nominees, and a list of the winners was created.

Our Judges: It is with the deepest gratitude that we acknowledge our blue-ribbon panel of judges—each an accomplished healthcare provider and a leader in the community. They are:

Robert W. Amler, MD, MBA New York Medical College, Vice President, Government Affairs; Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Practice and Institute of Public Health; Professor of Public Health, Pediatrics, and Environmental Health Science

Sherlita Amler, MD, MS Commissioner of Health, Westchester County

Kathy Reilly Fallon, MD Board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, Midtown Manhattan Health Center; Founder and Chairwoman, Heavenly Productions Foundation

Mary H. Gadomski, BSN, RN Executive Director, Montefiore Home Care

Don M. Starr, MD, FASA Pediatric Anesthesiologist affiliated with White Plains Hospital

Jessica Zwerling, MD, MS Director, Montefiore Hudson Valley Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease; Professor of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine; Program Director, UCNS Geriatric Neurology Fellowship; Director, Memory Disorders Center at Blondell; Associate Director, Center for the Aging Brain; Clinical Director, Einstein Aging Study.

Related: A Guide to Westchester County’s Hospitals