I would like to nominate Jen because she has fit each of these categories in one way or another.

Professional: Jen is always willing to work with her staff to keep them happy, whether it be switching a day on the schedule to accommodate our outside life, or finding ways to keep us happy in our role as a nurse.

Jen is an advocate for the patients and her staff as well. I have brought many patient situations forward as I needed them to be pushed to a higher level to properly care for my patients, and with no hesitation, Jen is always on my side and willing to support me and the decisions I make in my role. She also advocates for her staff when situations arise.

Jen is a leader. She is always there to answer questions, and if she does not have the answer, she will find out who does. She leads us based on her knowledge and pushes us to do more to better our careers and grow.

Jen is accountable. Not only is she accountable, but she holds her staff accountable as well to be sure patient safety is put first. She talks over patient situations with her staff and tries to understand and coach them when things are not done as expected.

Jen is a partner. She is not only my boss but a friend as well. I know I can bring anything to her and she will talk to me about it, whether it be with work, with home life, or just needing advice. I was at a point on the unit I was on, that I was maxed out and felt as though I could not grow anymore. Jen had been asking me to come to the stepdown unit for nearly a year when I finally made the decision to transfer units. When I transferred she made me feel at home, at work which is a good feeling to have. I am constantly learning under the guidance of Jen, and could not ask for a better boss. I think she deserves this award as she is a wonderful nurse leader.