Valley Baptist Health System invites you to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with us. Lasting from mid-September through October, Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to explore the vibrant cultures, enduring traditions and impactful contributions of Hispanic Americans.

Every day, across our organization, teammates with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives collaborate to deliver high-quality care and services. Our collective knowledge and strong teamwork drive the challenging work we do.

During this month, we will share the stories of members of our Valley Baptist Health System family who play vital roles in our mission to provide compassionate, award-winning care to our communities. We begin with Isaac Zavala, MBA, BSN, RN, and Director of Neuro, Med/Surg & Orthopedics at Valley Baptist-Harlingen.

Isaac Zavala, MBA, BSN, RN
Director of Neuro, Med/Surg & Orthopedics – Valley Baptist-Harlingen

How does this year’s National Hispanic Heritage Month theme – ‘Together, We Are More / Unidos, Somos Más’ – resonate with you?

Coming from a Hispanic background and growing up in Southern California, I’ve always appreciated the richness and diversity of Hispanic cultures. Since moving to the Rio Grande Valley, I’ve been especially inspired by the strong sense of unity, pride, and connection within this community. The theme 'Together, We Are More / Unidos, Somos Más' resonates with me because it reflects how our shared values, traditions, and support for one another make us stronger. I’m proud to serve this community and grateful to be welcomed as part of such a special place.

How has your heritage or personal experience influenced how you approach your work?

My Hispanic heritage has influenced the way I approach patient care and leadership by reminding me of the importance of connection, trust, and compassion. One thing I deeply appreciate about Hispanic culture is our ability to relate to one another through shared stories, traditions, and experiences that bring comfort and a sense of belonging. I strive to foster that same environment for both our patients and the nurses I lead. Although I am not a fluent Spanish speaker, when I worked at the bedside, I often used familiar Spanish sayings and phrases that my mother would use to comfort me growing up. I found that those simple, heartfelt expressions helped patients feel at ease, built trust, and created meaningful connections. Those experiences continue to shape how I care for others and support my team today.