Dr. Finck is a lead member of the Eastern Pediatric Surgical Network (EPSN), a consortium of about 20 Children’s Hospitals across the Eastern United States. This group’s mission is to collaborate on pediatric surgical diseases and identify best practices for treatments. Additionally, she is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA), where she serves on the technology and innovation committee as well as the fellowship program directors committee. These roles further demonstrate her commitment to driving innovation and mentoring the next generation of pediatric surgeons.

Notable achievements:

Innovative and ‘Outside the Box’ Thinking

Dr. Finck’s groundbreaking work in tissue engineering has propelled her to the forefront of medical innovation. Her recent provisional patent, which centers on 3D bioprinting of personalized engineered scaffolds, represents a revolutionary advancement in the field of regenerative medicine. This innovation holds immense promise for children born with congenital anomalies, offering solutions that were once unimaginable. Her ability to merge cutting-edge science with compassionate care highlights her visionary approach and dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in medicine.

Biostage, now called Harvard Regenerative Technologies, developed the scaffold that Dr. Finck worked to optimize and surgically implant. The company has launched two clinical trial sites for this technology in adults at the Mayo Clinic and the University of Michigan, with plans to open a site at Boston Children’s Hospital. Additionally, they are activating a site in China, where children with esophageal atresia are often left without treatment options, underscoring the global impact of this innovation.

Dr. Finck also launched Esophadex, a company dedicated to developing a device that helps feed children during times of healing without requiring anesthesia to place the device. This innovative approach provides a critical solution for children recovering from esophageal conditions, further exemplifying her commitment to improving pediatric care through groundbreaking technologies.

Tangible and Intangible Impact

The tangible impact of Dr. Finck’s work is evident in the lives of the countless patients she has treated and the families she has supported through their medical journeys. Most notably her oldest daughter. Dr. Finck first met Isabelle as a very sick child.  Isabelle was medically complex and needed around the clock care. When Isabelle’s mother put her up for adoption, Dr. Finck and her husband immediately knew they could provide the medical care and love to help Isabelle succeed in life. Dr. Finck’s adoption journey was featured on the local news. She often tells people that Isabelle came from her heart, not her belly. Isabelle is now a successful sophomore at Fairfield University in Connecticut.

Commitment to Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing

A passionate advocate for mentorship, Dr. Finck is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of surgeons. She created and launched the Women in Surgery initiative at Connecticut Children’s where she provides invaluable guidance and support to female medical professionals, breaking down barriers and fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive. As part of this group, Dr. Finck also launched her Women in Surgery podcast that explores important topics such as imposter syndrome, building your personal brand and others. In addition, she also created the Peter Decker’s Surgical Research Fellowship with a vision of creating opportunities for surgical residents to experience pediatric surgery and break down some barriers for women and underrepresented minorities. Dr. Finck’s mentorship truly extends beyond technical training; she inspires her mentees to think creatively, embrace challenges, and pursue excellence in all aspects of their careers.

Bonus: Firsts, Accolades, and Advocacy for Women

Dr. Finck has achieved several “firsts” in her career, including being one of the few women to ascend to the role of Surgeon-in-Chief in a major pediatric health system. Additionally, Dr. Finck’s advocacy for women in medicine has created opportunities for female physicians to excel in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her leadership and example have empowered countless women to pursue their dreams with confidence.

Dr. Audrey Evans inspires me because she exemplified what it means to be both a trailblazer in medicine and a compassionate advocate for families. Her ability to see beyond the clinical diagnosis—to understand that healing extends to the emotional well-being of both patients and their families—is deeply inspiring. She challenged conventions, innovated in pediatric oncology, and created lasting support systems like the Ronald McDonald House, which continue to impact lives globally. Her fearless commitment to doing what was right, even when it was unconventional, resonates with me as a surgeon and leader.

I want my legacy to be one of innovation and heartfelt impact in pediatric surgery. I hope to be remembered not only for advancing surgical techniques and improving outcomes for children but also for making my patients and their families feel seen, heard, and prioritized. Like Dr. Evans, I strive to create lasting change—whether through pioneering new medical approaches, mentoring the next generation of surgeons, or advocating for the holistic care every child deserves. My goal is to leave a legacy that reflects both scientific advancement and the deep human connection at the heart of medicine.