July 2026 Honoree
Jacob Ashdown, MSN, RN
I could not think of a better candidate for a DAISY Nurse Leader Award than Jacob. Jacob came to our team as an Assistant Nursing Director on nights, a position that had never existed before. Jacob has truly excelled in the role by not only making the patient experience better as a whole, but also being an amazing resource, mentor, and safe space for his staff. He truly is an extraordinary nurse who goes above and beyond every shift to show compassion to everyone he interacts with.
One example of this is Jacob going out of his way to ensure my patient had clean clothes. This patient was homeless and was being admitted for some new and scary things. Jacob went out of his way to go and buy laundry detergent on his own time and with his own money and then proceeded to track down a washer and dryer and clean my patient's clothes, all in the middle of the night. At this time, Jacob knew nothing about my patient, just that I wanted to provide him some clean clothes, and Jacob made it happen with no questions asked.
From helping in traumas to cleaning beds in pediatrics, Jacob actively seeks the needs of the department and steps in with a smile, all without being asked. I have never had a night shift administrator before, however Jacob truly exceeds my every expectation.
His kindness, compassion, and joy he brings to his role are truly inspiring, and we are so lucky to have him in the Emergency Department as a role model and resource.
One example of this is Jacob going out of his way to ensure my patient had clean clothes. This patient was homeless and was being admitted for some new and scary things. Jacob went out of his way to go and buy laundry detergent on his own time and with his own money and then proceeded to track down a washer and dryer and clean my patient's clothes, all in the middle of the night. At this time, Jacob knew nothing about my patient, just that I wanted to provide him some clean clothes, and Jacob made it happen with no questions asked.
From helping in traumas to cleaning beds in pediatrics, Jacob actively seeks the needs of the department and steps in with a smile, all without being asked. I have never had a night shift administrator before, however Jacob truly exceeds my every expectation.
His kindness, compassion, and joy he brings to his role are truly inspiring, and we are so lucky to have him in the Emergency Department as a role model and resource.
Thank you, Jacob, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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