DeAnna Davis was nominated because of her connection with patients. At least three to four times a week, a Veteran will stop by her office to say hi. Not only does she greet them with a smile, but they are genuinely happy to see her. She connects with the patients so much that patients will ask for her to do their procedure or test when a nurse is needed. Her calm demeanor and genuine care towards patients and family resonate with these Veterans.

I have seen upset veterans in the hallway, physically upset, but the minute they see her, it's like the sun is shining on them and nothing can go wrong. We have patients who bring her baked goods because of her stellar care and great connection with the patients. One thing that helps is that she is a Veteran herself, and this helps connect with the patients.

Another instance, there was a patient who was having chest pain in the hallway; we called a code blue. The patient was a little anxious, but DeAnna asked her which branch she was in. The lady said Air Force, so DeAnna said, "Well, I was in the Army, but we won't hold that against you". The Veteran instantly smiled, and she was able to calm down. She still had chest pain, but she actually stated it was better.