October 19 2009
'Changing lives, one child at a time'
Epstein '94 is human resources director of Elizabeth Seton Pediatric Center
David G. Epstein '94 never thought he would be playing Hannah Montana tunes at work.
As drummer/vocalist for "The Caterpillars," the in-house rock band at the Elizabeth Seton Pediatric Center, playing music for children is part of Epstein's life.
He is human resources director of the Manhattan-based center. There, medically fragile children -- some dependent on ventilators to breathe -- are the focus of a 750-person staff, four of whom perform occasionally as "The Caterpillars."
Epstein started his career working for a labor union and then a global information technology corporation.
Seven years ago, he followed his heart into health care by taking the job at Elizabeth Seton.
He oversees human resources and labor relations for the non-profit organization founded by the Sisters of Charity of New York.
"I like being part of something really important. If I can help a nurse or doctor provide better care to a child, I feel like that's a big contribution," Epstein said in an interview.
Epstein negotiates with SEIU Local 1199 at the center and proudly says there has been only one formal grievance in the last two years. "All of the training I received at ILR helped me," he said.
He held a key role in a restructuring at Elizabeth Seton. "We have undergone a culture change, led by our CEO, and moved from a traditional top-down model to a flattened organization with 'neighborhoods.' And our staff members have embraced this empowerment."
A challenge is recruiting clinical staff such as nurses and therapists. Epstein recalls that when he started at Elizabeth Seton, there was no recruitment budget. So, he recruited by walking around New York City dropping pamphlets off at nursing schools.
"It's amazing how far we've come," Epstein says. "Just seven years later, we are well known in our field and have been successful in not only recruiting nurses, but retaining them. We generally have less than five percent turnover in nursing."
Epstein is working on a staffing plan as the pediatric center prepares to move to Yonkers in 2011.
"Our new $145 million site will be on seven acres in beautiful Westchester County. The challenge will be retaining our key staff and we are making every effort to do so," he said.
A member of the Catherwood Library Advisory Council, Epstein said working in health care is challenging. From shrinking budgets and Medicaid cuts, to a tight recruitment market, each day brings obstacles to overcome.
But, there is fun and joy, too.
"I get to perform in the talent show and help children and staff. Our motto is 'Changing lives, one child at a time.' If I can be just a small part of helping with this mission, then I'm happy."
Epstein marvels at the way his life has unfolded at Elizabeth Seton Pediatric Center.
"It is," he said, "a rare opportunity."