Department Staff Member Cliff David Honored with
2025 Anne G. Crowe Spirit Award
by Roxanna Van Norman
August 6, 2025
Each year, the Stanford School of Medicine honors two exceptional staff members with the Anne G. Crowe Spirit Award. Recipients are selected for their outstanding dedication, initiative, motivation, positive attitude, and commitment to customer service. This year, the Stanford Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery is proud to recognize Cliff David as one of the award recipients.
“Receiving the Spirit Award is an absolute honor. The efforts made by our division to put me in a position to receive this recognition speak for themselves. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work with and learn from everyone on our team,” said Cliff.
Cliff was selected through a nomination process recognizing staff who consistently demonstrate exceptional performance and embody the values of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. He exemplifies the Spirit Award through his engaged and customer-focused approach, his teamwork, and his commitment to excellence in everything he does.
Cliff has been working in the department since 2022 as an administrative associate in the Division of Thoracic Surgery, supporting faculty members Leah Backhus, MD, MPH, Natalie Lui, MD, and Irmina Elliott, MD. In his role, he has been a reliable and positive presence, and “exemplifies what every employee should strive for—strong work ethic, team spirit, and commitment to excellence.”
Cliff David (center) with faculty, staff, and research team members from the Division of Thoracic Surgery.
In the nominations, Cliff was described as someone who “always goes above and beyond” and brings “endless enthusiasm” to his work. He is noted for juggling multiple tasks with ease, maintaining a positive attitude, and showing initiative in solving problems. The nominations also highlighted his strong work ethic, professionalism, and ability to keep teams organized, supported, and moving forward—making a meaningful impact on everyone he works with.
Originally from the Philippines, Cliff was raised in Orange County and the Bay Area. He graduated from San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Radio, Television, and Film Production. His hobbies include golf, motorcycles, and hockey.
The Anne G. Crowe Spirit Award honors staff whose dedication and service help make Stanford a world-class institution. The achievements of the institution would not be possible without the incredible support of individuals like Cliff.
The department hosted a celebratory lunch in his honor on July 23, 2025.
Congratulations to Cliff on this well-deserved recognition!
Cliff David