Sara Fazio

What inspires of motivates you in your role at HMS/HSDM?
As a young girl, I watched my mother struggle to receive appropriate care for a delayed diagnosis, given limited options available to her because she could not afford more comprehensive treatment. That experience ignited my desire to help others avoid similar hardships. She instilled in me the values of education, hard work, and the importance of seeing each patient as a whole person. Practicing medicine and teaching students through this lens - recognizing that no two patients, even with the same illness, are alike - brings me deep fulfillment. I am continually inspired and motivated by my patients, my students, and my incredible colleagues at HMS.

In what ways do you feel like you contribute to the Harvard community?
One of my most meaningful contributions to HMS has been mentoring and advising students. As a former clerkship director and now an Advisory Dean, I have had the privilege of guiding hundreds of medical students as they navigate their careers and discover their unique passions. My experiences as both a physician and an educator shape my approach to curricular innovation and mentorship. I draw insights from my students and lessons from my patients to create learning experiences that are impactful and lasting. Having balanced an academic career, patient care, and raising a family, I am also deeply committed to advocating for the career development and advancement of women in academic medicine at HMS.

What is the significance of the object you brought with you to the photo shoot?
I chose to bring a wooden box that sits on my desk at HMS, filled with letters and notes from students I have mentored over my 25+ years here. This collection serves as a daily reminder of the privilege I have in shaping the lives of future physicians. It reinforces why I do this work and the profound impact of mentorship, teaching, and human connection in medicine.