Sutter’s Alta Bates Summit Medical Center leaders with U.C. Berkeley student athletes. L to R are John Leatherman, senior administrator, Heart and Vascular Service Line; Dr. Ursula Boynton, chief medical executive; student Julia Bonaguidi; Starla Dianda, senior administrator, Orthopedic/Neuroscience Service Line; student Michela Miracco and student Parker Terrill.
By Clayton Warren, Vitals Contributor
The hum of hospital life greeted a group of U.C. Berkeley student-athletes as they stepped through the doors of Sutter’s Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Oakland on January 12. For many, this was their first glimpse into a world they had only imagined—a place where science meets compassion, and where every decision can change a life.
This wasn’t just a tour. It was a day of discovery, made possible through Sutter Health’s partnership with Cal Athletics and the Cameron Institute for Student-Athlete Development. Together, these organizations are committed to helping student-athletes thrive academically, athletically, and professionally.
“For Sutter, this is more than mentorship—it’s a strategy to grow the healthcare workforce of tomorrow and uphold our promise to be the best place to work and practice,” said Starla Dianda, senior administrator for Alta Bates Summit’s Orthopedic/Neuroscience Service Line. “Programs like this are about more than observation—they’re about connection. When students see the collaboration and compassion that drive patient care, they begin to imagine themselves as part of that story. That’s how we build the future of healthcare.”
From the Sidelines to the Surgical Suite
Cal student athletes with Dr. Basil Alwattar, orthopedic surgeon.
The students traded their jerseys for scrubs and entered a world of precision and purpose. They observed a knee procedure, guided by Dr. Basil Alwattar, an orthopedic surgeon with Sutter East Bay Medical Group who welcomed their curiosity.
“Opening the OR to students gives them a real look at the discipline, teamwork and compassion that define orthopedic care,” said Dr. Alwattar. “Their questions reminded us why we do this work in the first place.”
Sutter Health’s orthopedic programs are nationally recognized for excellence, earning honors such as The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal for hip and knee replacement and inclusion in Becker’s Hospital Review’s 2025 list of ‘100 Hospitals and Health Systems with Great Orthopedic Programs.’
“Observing cardiovascular and orthopedic procedures and hearing from the doctors and nurses was incredibly eye-opening,” said Michela Miracco, a U.C. Berkeley freshman and cross-country runner. “It’s helped me think more intentionally about my future in healthcare.”
Cal student athletes with Dr. Rajan Shah, cardiologist.
In the Catheterization Lab, the students also met Dr. Rajan Shah, a cardiologist with Sutter East Bay Medical Group and watched him implant an ICD (implantable cardioverter defibrillator) device that monitors the heart’s rhythm and can deliver treatment if a dangerous rhythm is detected.
“Sharing this experience with the students was truly rewarding,” says Dr. Shah. “Watching their curiosity as we implanted an ICD reminded me why we do what we do—every procedure is a chance to save a life. I hope this moment sparks a passion in them to pursue medicine and make a difference in the world.”
Why It Matters
“We are committed to creating opportunities for the next generation, and we’re proud to partner with U.C. Berkeley—our hometown university—to help spark curiosity and open doors into healthcare,” says Dr. Ursula Boynton, chief medical executive, Alta Bates Summit. “This collaboration with Cal Athletics takes thoughtful planning from our administrative teams and meaningful time from our physicians, who are already balancing incredibly full days. Their dedication reflects who we are at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center.”
Healthcare faces a nationwide shortage of clinicians. By investing in programs like this, Sutter is helping fill the pipeline with talented, passionate individuals who want to make a difference. These experiences show students that a career in healthcare is not only attainable — it’s rewarding and impactful.
Student athletes learn about what it’s like to work in a hospital.
“Today was really inspirational. Hearing from everyone who was so willing to answer our questions showed the great teamwork at Sutter Health,” said Julia Bonaguidi, a junior majoring in integrative biology and women’s water polo player. “It was amazing to see what their everyday looks like.”
As a best place to work and practice, Sutter is committed to creating pathways for learning and growth. Partnerships like the one with Cal Athletics—recently extended through 2031—reflect the organization’s dedication to building strong communities and inspiring future healthcare leaders.
“This experience taught me that medicine doesn’t have one step,” said Parker Terrill, a senior majoring in molecular and cell biology and track and field athlete. “There’s no single path to becoming a physician or healthcare professional. We’re so lucky to have this opportunity.”
Commitment to Opportunity
By opening its doors, Sutter is helping build the next generation of healthcare leaders.
