Ashley McKnight is the recipient of the DAISY Nurse Leader Award in recognition of her exceptional leadership and outstanding contributions to nursing education at Overlook Medical Center. Throughout her distinguished career with Atlantic Health System, Ashley has demonstrated unwavering dedication to her professional development and the growth of OMC nursing staff.

Ashley began her career as a new graduate nurse and has since evolved into a respected leader. She has worked across various Atlantic Health System locations—Overlook, Hackettstown, and Morristown—always striving to provide the best possible care and fostering a strong educational foundation. Her journey from bedside nurse to the first night shift educator, and eventually the Manager of Nursing Education, speaks to her commitment to enhancing the nursing profession at every level.

As Manager of Nursing Education at Overlook, Ashley has redefined the role of nursing education within the institution. She has successfully expanded the nursing education department by creating new nurse educator positions on both day and night shifts. Her leadership has been instrumental in developing and supporting the HIRE Learner Nurse Residency program, which fosters the growth of new graduate nurses, helping them transition into confident, competent professionals. Furthermore, Ashley has supported pre-licensure nursing students by implementing and growing existing programs such as the Dedicated Education Units, Summer Nurse Externship Program, and nursing internships, all of which contribute to the growth and development of future nurses. Ashley has been instrumental in transitioning our nursing onboarding assessment to an electronic format using HealthStream. This improvement has significantly enhanced the efficiency of the assessment process and effectively identifies knowledge gaps, ensuring a stronger and more prepared nursing staff.

Ashley is not only innovative in her approach but also deeply invested in fostering an environment that promotes continuous improvement. Her creative vision has transformed the landscape of nursing education at Overlook Medical Center, and her ability to implement programs with ease is a testament to her intelligence and organizational skills. Ashley’s commitment to evolving traditional nursing education into nursing professional development will leave a lasting impact on both the current and future nursing workforce within Atlantic Health System.

In addition to her professional skills, Ashley is known for her kindness, approachability, and ability to engage and inspire others. She commands a room with her exceptional public speaking abilities, and her down-to-earth, relatable nature ensures that she connects with people at all levels.

Ashley McKnight is a remarkable nurse leader who continuously strives to make a positive impact within nursing education. I wholeheartedly believe she exemplifies the qualities of a DAISY Nurse Leader, and I am confident that she will continue to inspire and elevate the nursing profession at OMC and AHS for many years to come.