May 2026 Honoree
Amanda Stevens-Hensley, RN, Assistant Nurse Manager
I would like to nominate our Assistant Nurse Manager for the DAISY Award for the extraordinary compassion, leadership, and unwavering support she demonstrated while stepping into the Nurse Manager role. During a time that could have felt overwhelming and uncertain, she became the steady presence our team relied on every single day. What makes her truly exceptional is not only her ability to lead, but also the genuine care she shows for everyone around her. No matter the hour or how difficult the situation, she is always there—answering calls late at night, checking on staff after hard shifts, offering comfort during emotional moments, and making sure no one feels alone. She leads with both strength and heart.
She has created an environment where staff feel safe, valued, and supported. In moments of stress and exhaustion, she meets people with patience, understanding, and kindness. She notices when someone is struggling and steps in without hesitation, whether it is offering encouragement, helping carry the workload, or simply listening when someone needs support. Her compassion has lifted this team through some very difficult moments. She has inspired trust, strengthened morale, and reminded us all what true nursing leadership looks like. Her selflessness, dedication, and ability to care so deeply for others are something those fortunate enough to work beside her will never forget. She is more than deserving of this recognition because she does not simply lead a team — she genuinely cares for the people within it.
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On one of the toughest workdays ever, Amanda was there to support us. On this day, one of our favorite coworkers and friends passed away. Amanda, who is in training to be the interim nurse manager, was right there to support us. She offered to take over as a PCA while we dealt with our grief, when she herself was grieving. She stepped up as a leader in so many ways that day. She made an imprint on us. Beyond that day, she has been our rock on the unit. She fed, changed, passed out meds, and helped patients who weren’t hers. We love Amanda and are so grateful for her.
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Amanda has stepped up as a fill-in manager when needed, showing strong leadership, reliability, and willingness to take on additional responsibility without hesitation. She leads with strength and empathy, ensuring the unit continues to run smoothly while maintaining a positive, supportive atmosphere. One of the most meaningful examples of Amanda's compassion and dedication was during the difficult time when our unit clerk, Tracy, passed away. Amanda was there for her staff, offering comfort, understanding, and unwavering support when it was needed most. Her presence helped guide the team through a heartbreaking time and reminded everyone they were not alone. Amanda is truly the backbone of our floor. Her commitment, kindness, and leadership inspire those around her every day, and she makes a difference not only in her patients' lives but also in her coworkers'. She is more than deserving of this recognition.
She has created an environment where staff feel safe, valued, and supported. In moments of stress and exhaustion, she meets people with patience, understanding, and kindness. She notices when someone is struggling and steps in without hesitation, whether it is offering encouragement, helping carry the workload, or simply listening when someone needs support. Her compassion has lifted this team through some very difficult moments. She has inspired trust, strengthened morale, and reminded us all what true nursing leadership looks like. Her selflessness, dedication, and ability to care so deeply for others are something those fortunate enough to work beside her will never forget. She is more than deserving of this recognition because she does not simply lead a team — she genuinely cares for the people within it.
***
On one of the toughest workdays ever, Amanda was there to support us. On this day, one of our favorite coworkers and friends passed away. Amanda, who is in training to be the interim nurse manager, was right there to support us. She offered to take over as a PCA while we dealt with our grief, when she herself was grieving. She stepped up as a leader in so many ways that day. She made an imprint on us. Beyond that day, she has been our rock on the unit. She fed, changed, passed out meds, and helped patients who weren’t hers. We love Amanda and are so grateful for her.
***
Amanda has stepped up as a fill-in manager when needed, showing strong leadership, reliability, and willingness to take on additional responsibility without hesitation. She leads with strength and empathy, ensuring the unit continues to run smoothly while maintaining a positive, supportive atmosphere. One of the most meaningful examples of Amanda's compassion and dedication was during the difficult time when our unit clerk, Tracy, passed away. Amanda was there for her staff, offering comfort, understanding, and unwavering support when it was needed most. Her presence helped guide the team through a heartbreaking time and reminded everyone they were not alone. Amanda is truly the backbone of our floor. Her commitment, kindness, and leadership inspire those around her every day, and she makes a difference not only in her patients' lives but also in her coworkers'. She is more than deserving of this recognition.
Thank you, Amanda, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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