I am so excited to nominate Andrea (Dede) Colevas, who I have known since I began my career at Children's in 1997. We have worked together as bedside Nurses, as Nurse Leaders, and most recently as partners as we endeavored to serve our community and vaccinate our District of Columbia Public School (DCPS) teachers. Dede remains steadfast in her leadership, always thoughtful, thinking and timely. She goes above-and-beyond to make sure that the team has thought of every detail and takes the initiative to address any issues or concerns.
My specific example of her leadership is first to acknowledge her willingness to volunteer. As always, Dede jumps right in to help. With regard to the DCPS vaccine clinic, she quickly volunteered and I had a partner I knew I could count on. Quickly I realized that I needed someone to manage the supplies process to ensure we had everything we needed to make sure each day of the clinic ran smoothly. I asked Dede if she would take this on, and as expected, she said yes.
Dede's involvement in this process resulted in a flawless workflow for our vaccinators. They had what they needed, when they needed it. Dede monitored the inventory closely, and collaborated with supply chain to make sure we replenished our pars levels for each day of the clinic. In addition to her role in supply chain management, Dede prepared vaccines for administration. We gave nearly 7,000 doses! Dede served as the nursing supervisor in the med room, supported the many volunteers, and ensured that our preparation process was error-free.
This exemplar of her nursing leadership and nursing excellence is just one of many I think of. Dede is an incredible leader who has strengthened our Magnet nursing environment by designing and implementing the CAP program, coaching and mentoring nurses and being a visible and authentic leader.
I am honored to know Dede, to work with her, and to always learn from her.