Featured Anesthesiology Members

Department of Anesthesiology Featured Member: July 2025

Gary Hubbard is a seasoned and highly respected CRNA in the Department of Anesthesiology at Washington University and BJC. After graduating from Webster University’s nurse anesthesia program in 2016, he joined the department and has since become a cornerstone of the clinical team. With over two decades of experience in healthcare—including time in the ICU at Mercy Hospital—Gary brings a deep well of knowledge, precision, and compassion to every case.

Known among colleagues as the “paragon of the highest quality CRNA our hospital can achieve,” Gary exemplifies professionalism and excellence in everything he does. He is consistently early to work, thoroughly prepares for each patient, and collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams across the hospital. Whether caring for the most complex adult cases, pediatric patients at SLCH, or leading within his own service line, Gary is known for his calm, deliberate approach and unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care.

His colleagues describe him as intelligent, kind, and deeply devoted—not only to his patients but also to teaching and supporting his peers. A patient and effective educator, Gary communicates the intricacies of anesthesia care with clarity and depth, making him a role model for CRNAs both new and experienced.

Outside of work, Gary is an avid world traveler who has explored more than 20 countries across five continents. His adventures have taken him from the jungles of Cambodia to the mountains of Peru, and he loves incorporating the flavors of his travels into his home cooking and baking. At home in St. Louis, Gary enjoys the local culinary scene, relaxing by the water with his partner, and spending time with their two beloved dogs.

Thoughtful, humble, and deeply committed, Gary Hubbard sets a high standard for what it means to be a CRNA—and we’re proud to have him as a member of our team.

Department of Anesthesiology Featured Member: November 2021

Abby was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware. She attended Washington University in St. Louis and earned a bachelor’s degree in history. During her undergraduate years, she realized that her dad’s occupation was interesting, challenging, and offered a great work-life balance. He, of course, was a CRNA!

After graduation from WashU, Abby completed an accelerated BSN at University of Delaware. Her college sweetheart brought her back to St. Louis, and she took a job in the neuro ICU at Barnes-Jewish Hospital.

After 2 years in the ICU, she enrolled at Webster University where she completed her anesthesia degree in 2015. She was offered a job at Progress West Hospital with the Department of Anesthesiology and has been working there ever since.

The college sweetheart turned out to be a good gamble! Abby has been married to her husband, Tom, since 2013 and they are parents to 5-year-old Lila, and 2-year-old Maisie.

Outside of work, Abby enjoys spending time with her family, quilting, following the British royal family, and reading mysteries.</p>

Jena is a Clinical Informaticist within the Department of Anesthesiology, where she has served since February 2024. She holds Epic certifications in both Optime and Anesthesiology.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in health science from Maryville University in St. Louis. Prior to joining the department, Jena spent five years in the Division of Electrophysiology at BJH and three years on the Epic 1 Optime/Anesthesia team.

Outside of work, Jena is a proud mother of three. She is active in her community, volunteering with Cub Scouts, leading hiking adventures, and attending her children’s various sporting events.

Department of Anesthesiology Featured Member: February 2025

Sarah has been a critical care nurse practitioner at WashU Medicine for nearly a decade, bringing a wealth of experience from a medical career that began in 2006. Throughout her time at WashU, she has taken on numerous roles, serving as a member of the PIA Safe group, a wellness champion, a WOW committee member, a preceptor, and the founder of the APP Social & Well-Being Committee. While her heart belongs to the Surgical Trauma ICU, she is currently embracing the challenge of learning new skills in the Cardiothoracic ICU.

Outside of work, Sarah loves to travel and stay active—one of her personal goals is to visit all the major national parks. A devoted ice cream lover, she enjoys almost every flavor except plain chocolate. She also cherishes time with her friends, family, boyfriend, two dogs, and cat.

This year brings an exciting new chapter—Sarah is thrilled to welcome a baby girl in March!