Creating an environment where attributes of trust, compassion, mutual respect, continued professional development, and ethical behavior are modeled and supported.

"Leadership is not about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in your charge." – Simon Sinek

Jessica’s effective leadership qualities encompass a range of characteristics, including integrity, vision, empathy, accountability, communication skills, confidence, courage, resilience, active listening, decisiveness, positivity, and self-awareness. She often models ethical behavior that is supportive and crucial to her staff. When faced with challenges that arise daily, she empowers her staff, who trust and respect her immensely.

Jessica creates a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected. She is accessible, available, and responsive to the needs of her team. Leaders must be close enough to relate to others, but far enough ahead to motivate them, and Jessica portrays excellence in this area. She can relate to the needs of the unit, staff, and patients without disturbing her work-life balance.

An “open door” aspect of her leadership and an approachable demeanor are additional characteristics she exudes in her everyday interactions. Her willingness to “make it happen” and her openness to alternative ideas and ingenuity allow her staff to excel in their performance. She encourages problem-solving and critical thinking among her team members.

John Maxwell stated, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Intelligence and organization allow Jessica to demonstrate outstanding problem-solving abilities and encourage her staff to think critically. Jessica understands the importance of both and advocates for her staff to apply them in their practice.

Although she may not always see it, Jessica is the biggest advocate for her team, a team that extends all the way to the patient. I have witnessed and experienced her interactions with multidisciplinary staff, where she centers her thoughts and actions on what is best practice, not only in immediate situations but also in planning for future needs. She understands that leadership often means planting a seed of knowledge and allowing it to grow.

Jessica encourages collaboration and empowers her team members to take ownership and contribute their best work. She ensures that the needs of the team are communicated to organizational leadership, and that organizational priorities and directions are clearly shared with her team through emails and the “BC News.” She often extends a quick face-to-face interaction to clarify any issues and frequently encourages communication to be led by those around her, supporting their outreach in meaningful ways.

Compassionate leaders actively listen and strive to understand the perspectives and needs of their team members. Jessica genuinely cares for her team’s well-being, both personally and professionally, remembering previous interactions and following up with conversations that embrace the uniqueness of each individual.