Joy exemplifies what it means to lead by example. She displays integrity, exceptional leadership, and dedication to excellence every single day. As a nurse manager of the Emergency Department (ED), she is frequently faced with unique challenges that require her to respond on short notice, which she always manages to do with a smile on her face and a positive attitude, and this can be reflected in her staff as well.

She does not hesitate to make herself available to her team, no matter the day or time. She consistently fills open shifts herself and works side by side with her staff to ensure they are taken care of. Nights, weekends, and holidays, she will be there whenever there is a need. I have never seen a nurse manager this willing to step into their unit and lend a hand when needed.

Joy has been a nurse for many years, which has resulted in her seeing and dealing with almost every situation that has come through the ED doors. This experience has made her an expert in problem-solving and critical thinking, which she has been passing on to her staff. She consistently has up-to-date education at all of her staff meetings, ensuring they have the latest information and tools at their disposal.

She will consistently advocate for her team, not shying away from contacting administration and sharing one of her most well-known sayings, "My staff are my greatest resource", getting them what they need to care for their patients.

Joy rarely misses a meeting or opportunity to communicate with leadership and peers, even on her days off, and volunteers for responsibilities to ensure needs are communicated to everybody on a timely basis.

Nobody knows their staff better or cares more deeply for them than Joy. She truly cares about what they are going through and will bend over backward to make their work environment as positive as possible.