35 under 35
Hayley Barblock Kubacki, MPAS, PA-C Kappa Xi - Duquesne University
Clinical Educator, Syneos Health
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Community
Can you share a brief 5-7 sentence biography about yourself, highlight key moments in your career that have shaped who you are today?
My career has been shaped by several defining moments that have challenged me to grow professionally and personally. The first was graduating from PA school and starting my career in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit where I gained invaluable experience caring for critically ill newborns, including serving on the LifeFlight helicopter transport team. My second major transition was moving into a surgical role — an ambitious shift that required perseverance as I applied to more than 50 positions and secured only two interviews due to a competitive job market and my lack of prior surgical experience. This journey, ultimately, connected me with the chief of surgery, who recognized my dedication and innovation, which led me to leadership roles such as Associate Medical Informatics Director and APP Representative on the Medical Executive Committee. The third defining arc was my transition to surgical oncology, where I have been able to combine my passion for innovation with cutting-edge technologies and therapies in order to better serve cancer patients in my community. Each of those experiences has reinforced my commitment to patient care, continuous learning and the power of resilience in shaping a meaningful career.
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from this friendship?
I have been fortunate to have multiple invaluable mentors across various disciplines, including nurses, physicians and fellow physician assistants. Each of them has played a unique role in shaping me professionally and personally. Their guidance has taught me not only the technical skills necessary to gain proficiency, but also the emotional resilience and compassion required to provide the best possible care. Through their diverse perspectives and experiences, I have gained a deeper understanding of teamwork, adaptability, and the importance of continuous learning, all of which have made me a better healthcare provider and person.
How did you discover your passion and what opportunities have helped shape your curiosity for what you do?
Throughout my journey, various opportunities have helped shape my curiosity and commitment to this field. Hands-on experiences in patient care, mentorship from dedicated health professionals and witnessing the resilience of those I serve have all reinforced my desire to make a meaningful impact. Just as Delta Zeta has provided me with a lifelong support system, my career has allowed me to offer that same support to others, deepening my dedication to both my profession and the communities that I serve.
Looking ahead in your career, how do you envision continuing to incorporate generosity into your leadership style and professional endeavors?
Looking ahead in my career, I will incorporate generosity into my leadership and professional endeavors by prioritizing mentorship, patient-centered care and community outreach. I actively mentor new APPs as they transition into our department, ensuring that they feel supported. For my patients, generosity means taking the extra time to provide emotional reassurance, whether that’s making a personal phone call or meeting in person during difficult moments, instead of relying on instant messaging. I also extend this commitment beyond the hospital by educating the community on the importance of skin exams and sun safety through outreach programs. Moving forward, I plan to further integrate generosity into my leadership style by fostering a culture of compassion, innovation, and accessibility, ensuring that both my colleagues and patients feel valued and supported.
How has your community helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
My community has played a crucial role in my professional growth, providing support, mentorship and encouragement throughout my career. From the interdisciplinary team members who have guided me to the patients who inspire me daily, I have been shaped by the people around me. One of my greatest sources of support has been my close friend and Delta Zeta sister, who is also a physician assistant. We have shared both the professional and personal highs and lows of our careers, offering each other guidance, reassurance and perspective along the way. Her unwavering support has reinforced the importance of having a strong network, reminding me that success is not just about individual achievement, but also about the community that lifts us. Through mentorship, teamwork, and friendships like ours, I continue to grow as a provider and a person.
What does empowerment mean to you, and how have you worked to empower others in your career or personal life?
To me, empowerment means giving others the confidence and support they need to reach their full potential. In my career, I empower others by mentoring new APPs as they transition into our department, ensuring they feel capable and supported in their roles. I also strive to empower my patients by taking the time to educate them about their health and treatment options, ensuring that they feel heard, informed, and in control of their care. On a more personal level, I have found empowerment through my friendships. We support and uplift each other through the challenges of our professions, reinforcing the power of encouragement and shared experiences. Whether through mentorship, patient care, or personal relationships, I believe empowerment is about lifting others so they can thrive.
What does it mean to you to create an environment of belonging for others, and how do you carry that lesson into your personal and professional life?
Creating an environment of belonging means fostering a space where others feel valued, supported and heard. In my professional life, I strive to create this sense of belonging by mentoring new APPS, ensuring they feel welcomed and confident as they transition into their roles. I also prioritize making my patients feel seen and cared for, taking extra time to offer reassurance, answer questions, and provide the personal attention they need during difficult moments. Beyond the workplace, my relationships with friends and family have reinforced the power of genuine connection and shared experiences. Despite what may be happening in current events, I am committed to creating spaces where others feel supported, empowered and included.