The aroma of freshly baked pastelitos is a familiar scent that instantly transports Isaac Sendros back to his childhood. He fondly recalls his mother's labor of love, crafting these sweet pastries filled with guava and cream cheese. It’s a Cuban tradition she now shares with Sendros’ son, John.
“It’s one way she’s passing down our legacy to future generations,” he said.
Sendros views his mother’s signature delicacy as more than a treat. It’s a symbol of heritage and the sacrifices his parents made to build a better life for their family.
"My parents arrived to the U.S. with just a suitcase," he said. "There were many struggles, including working multiple jobs. But there's such beauty in looking back at those moments.”
Sendros said these early experiences instilled in him a deep appreciation for hard work, resilience and giving back – values that have shaped his approach to life, leadership and community service.
Before heading to college, Sendros started his first job as a greeter at AdventHealth Sebring in the West Florida Division, where he was drawn to the energy and pace of the hospital environment. He eventually progressed through various roles to become the president and CEO of AdventHealth Redmond in Georgia.
A major turning point in Sendros' leadership journey came in 2021 during the Colorado Marshall Fire. Then as president and CEO of AdventHealth Avista, he rallied with team members to swiftly evacuate patients and reopen the hospital – an experience that deepened his connection to the community and strengthened his faith.
“It was a unifying moment for team members and the community – a springboard for so much more growth," he said.
Sendros’ faith continues to guide his work in northwest Georgia, inspiring his love for the community. He leads with a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to uplifting others, echoing the sacrifices his parents made.
At AdventHealth Redmond – a 230-bed hospital with more than 50 years of service – he is actively collaborating with his team to help shape the future of the Rome, Georgia, community through various initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of residents. A few examples include:
- The ECO Greenway Trail System: An AdventHealth-themed trail system featuring a playground, physical activity area and a food forest designed to provide seasonal fruits throughout the year
- The Free Clinic of Rome: A partnership providing financial support and medical care to underserved communities, allowing medical residents to volunteer their services
- A Day of Service: A community event that provides team members the opportunity to volunteer alongside local nonprofit organizations on impactful community service projects
- Night of Hope Concert: A free concert celebrating faith and community, featuring local musicians and inspiring stories, aimed at strengthening AdventHealth's role as a faith-based leader
- The Rome Braves Partnership: A partnership with the Rome Braves Minor League Baseball team offering families free admission and food for kids weekly
Having overseen significant development projects that expanded services to communities, Sendros prioritizes building relationships. He’s passionate about ensuring that AdventHealth's presence in the community is rooted in whole-person care and service.
“Christ came to serve all, save all, heal all and most importantly, love all. That's really what we do in health care,” he said. “We are the light in people's moments of darkness.”
He's most proud of the relationships he's built and the leaders he's developed, acknowledging the guidance he's received from mentors like Sheila Rankin (CEO of AdventHealth Kissimmee), Jeff Villanueva (CEO of AdventHealth Altamonte Springs) and Lorenzo Brown (President/CEO of AdventHealth Fish Memorial).
Family remains a cornerstone in Sendros' life. His parents, who live nearby, are a constant source of inspiration and support. "Living my faith makes them proud,” he said. “My community work reminds me of their sacrifices; this is why they came."