I have had the pleasure of working with and knowing Denise over the last 18 years. I worked alongside her when I became a brand new nurse in the emergency department on the night shift, then watched her flourish in her role as the nurse shift manager, then manager, and now, most recently, as the Director of nursing. I always joke that Denise has been in this leadership role since the beginning because she has always been instrumental in guiding the department, no matter what role she was in.

Denise was an effective charge nurse who knew and understood the ins and outs of the unit and how to handle working with a variety of different personalities in providers, leadership, co-workers, as well as patients and their support systems, all while maintaining a positive outlook and attitude even in the most stressful situations. She is a light that brightens up the room wherever she is, and unless your senses have failed you miserably, you definitely know when she is nearby. Denise has always had a knack for seeing the best in people and lifting them, cheering them on with her charismatic charm despite their disposition or situation. As a leader, she treats everyone with fairness and respect, no matter what your role is in the organization. She will treat you as a valued member even if you are not her direct report. Most importantly, she listens to what you have to say and will try to help you in any way she can because, in the grand scheme of things, she knows this is what makes the best team and fulfills our mission as an organization. She is undoubtedly a true exemplar of a fantastic nurse, but also a wonderful co-worker, boss, sister, daughter, mother, friend, and most importantly, an amazing human being.