Frances D'Arcy, MHA, BSN, RN, NEA-BC

Despite Frances' extensive operational leadership experience, NEA-BC, and six sigma credentials nothing could have prepared her for this past year, running a COVID ICU. She was faced with many crises and surge planning challenges, keeping the safety of the patients at the forefront of every decision made. She shows up days, nights, weekends (and even on Christmas Day) ready to lead the team fearlessly. She has more often than not been found in her N95 and surgical cap, standing on the frontlines alongside her team. Although this past year was physically demanding, the greatest challenge she faced was the loss of one of our own teammates to COVID. At end of life, we were unable to reach the wife, and she feared facing this loss alone. It was Frances who, after working a full day, drove to their home and accompanied the wife back to the hospital and supported her in saying goodbye. Frances has never allowed any of us to feel alone in this pandemic. Frances is an exceptional leader, mentor, and nurse!