Dr. Paula Ferrada, MD, FACS, FCCM, MAMSE Chair, Department of Surgery – Inova Fairfax Medical Campus Division and System Chief for Trauma and Acute Care Surgery – Inova Health System Medical Director, Perioperative Services – Inova Health System Professor of Medical Education – University of Virginia Dr. Paula Ferrada is a transformative leader in healthcare, renowned nationally and internationally for advancing surgical care, trauma systems, and inclusive leadership in medicine. A trailblazer in academic surgery, Dr. Ferrada became the first Colombian woman to graduate from a Harvard-affiliated general surgery program and has since held leadership roles that span clinical excellence, systems innovation, and global mentorship. Currently Chair of Surgery at Inova Fairfax and System Chief of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery for Inova Health, she has led system-wide cultural and operational transformations that have improved safety, reduced costs, and empowered frontline teams. Her leadership is equally prominent on the global stage, where she served as President of the Panamerican Trauma Society, created international education exchanges, and authored multicenter research impacting trauma care worldwide. A prolific researcher, educator, and advocate, Dr. Ferrada has published over 145 peer-reviewed articles, contributed to national practice guidelines, and serves on the editorial boards of the most respected surgical journals. Her strategic vision and collaborative approach make her a sought-after voice in healthcare transformation and leadership development.