Hanna Lee Huang, Market Chief Executive Officer
Hanna brings enthusiasm and energy to her role as she leads the day-to-day functions of the hospital’s operations.
With more than 20 years of experience in healthcare and business, Hanna has a strong understanding of how to best meet the needs of our patients, physicians, and employees. She has worked seven years in nursing and most recently served as the hospital’s director of marketing and business development.
Hanna earned a bachelor’s degree in commerce with a major in marketing from St. Scholastica’s College in Manila, Philippines, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Makati in Makati, Philippines. She currently serves with the Laredo Health Coalition.
Derek Hernandez, Director of Pharmacy
Derek started as a pharmacist at Laredo Specialty Hospital & Laredo Rehabilitation Hospital in 2018. Patient care is the utmost priority and Derek knows that interdisciplinary teamwork is what it takes to achieve patient recovery and satisfaction.
He has served with the Laredo Specialty Hospital & Laredo Rehabilitation Hospital pharmacy team during the COVID outbreak and as well served as interim director. Through COVID, he worked with Wal-Mart Pharmacy to provide COVID vaccinations for the community. He currently also works in a local acute care hospital setting.
Derek then transitioned to director of pharmacy in 2022 and is eager to learn pharmaceutical management and encompass the pharmacy and Ernest Health core values. He earned his Doctorate in Pharmacy from Texas Southern University in Houston. In his spare time, Derek is a car enthusiast, enjoys spending time with his family in the Rio Grande Valley, exercises, and travels.
Maria Castillon, Director of Human Resources
Maria has been a human resources administrator for over 24 years for numerous large local, national and multi-national private and public organizations, health care providers and manufacturers.
Maria’ priority is to find, hire and retain the most qualified health care and professional staff with the skills, experience and commitment that contribute and assure the most beneficial services to our patients.
She earned a BA degree in Bilingual Education from the Universidad Regiomontana of Monterrey and has attended Laredo Community College.
In her spare time, Maria enjoys spending time with family, friends and traveling.
Sylvia L. Babiak, Director of Patient Outcomes
Having been in social work for more than 20 years – 15 of which were in the medical field, Sylvia is passionate about ensuring that patients are satisfied with their recovery process and receive the best results possible.
Sylvia received a bachelor’s degree in social work from St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas. She has served as a preceptor for social work students in the Laredo community.
In her spare time, Sylvia volunteers for the J.B. Alexander Band Board. She enjoys cooking, pickling, and jam making.
Julia Casso, Director of Compliance
With more than ten years of nursing experience and five years in compliance, Julia implements and monitors policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and accreditation standards. She also helps to develop strategic plans for improved healthcare quality.
Over the years, Julia has earned a BA in public affairs and corporate communications from Southern Methodist University, a master’s in library science from Sam Houston State University, a BS in nursing and a master’s in nursing administration, both from Texas A&M International University.
She has experience as an emergency room nurse, as well as a program coordinator for chest pain and stroke.
She is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and a member of the Society of Martha Washington.
Joseph Troudt, Director of Therapy Operations
Joseph has dedicated his career to helping clients reach their full abilities and return to their homes. For over 6 years, Joseph has been providing and managing care for his clients.
Joseph earned a master’s degree in occupational therapy from the University of North Dakota and currently is neuro-INFRAH certified as well as LSVT (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment) BIG certified.
Joseph is a member of American Occupational Therapy Association. He extends his dedication to high-quality care for the community by serving at the Hands and Feet Clinic of Laredo.
Wayne Deem, Director of Facilities Management
Wayne brings more than 25 years of experience to his position, with 13 of them in leadership and management.
Wayne’s varied experience has provided him insight to many aspects of facilities management. Along with past leadership positions, he has served as an HVAC/R technician, commercial and industrial refrigeration pipe fitter, and an industrial thermal cooling plant mechanic.
Wayne earned an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science from Laredo Community College and holds a HVAC/R certificate. He is involved with the city in various projects including, Hospital Preparedness Program.
In his spare time, Wayne enjoys the outdoors, fishing, and camping with his family.
Laura Liendo, Chief Nursing Officer
Laura brings her passion for nursing to her role as a nurse leader. After graduating from Laredo Community College in 2004, Laura started her nursing career in an acute care ICU for eight years before joining Laredo Specialty Hospital in 2012. Laura started at LSH as an ICU nurse and soon became a night shift house supervisor for four years. Laura then transitioned to become the wound care leader in 2016 for three years, where she was able to collaborate with the nursing team to promote wound healing. Laura became the chief nursing officer for LSH in 2019 and embraces the everchanging challenges healthcare brings her team in her role as a nurse leader.
Laura obtained her Bachelor of Science in nursing from Texas A&M International University in May 2022 and is currently enrolled at TAMIU for her Master of Science in nursing administration. Laura enjoys spending time with her family, exercising, reading, and baking in her spare time.
