I would like to thank this nurse leader and share my story of why this leader is so special: Lorrie has led her amazing team through so many challenges over the last several years, but the last 1 ½ years were exceptionally unique. If the already incredibly difficult situation of lack of house bed availability wasn’t challenging enough, the ED ended up being ground zero of Covid-19 for Northern California. Her staff learned and adapted constantly, and Lorrie supported them through it every step of the way. I have been in awe of the impact she has had as a leader with her team, and it is beautiful to see the respect her staff gives her. She is a true nurse advocate and a servant leader.

One thing I love about Lorrie is that despite the mountain of work and incredibly difficult situation she is faced with on a daily basis managing the ED, she makes you feel like what you do, and your needs are important too. She makes time for me and the concerns or issues I bring to her, though I know in my heart they aren’t nearly as important as everything else she is facing. I am grateful for that.

Lastly, the other day in October New Employee Orientation, we were in the middle of introductions and all of our leaders were in front of the new nurses present for class. Not one, but two travelers spoke out after working with Lorrie for the last few months, and both said that she was the best manager they have ever had in their entire nursing career. I believe it.