July 2026 Honoree
Kathleen Charbonnier, MSN, RN, NE-BC
Kathy has been an exceptional leader, role model, and unwavering source of support at MEE since 2015. From the very beginning, she has made it a priority to be visible and to personally welcome each new hire during orientation—taking the time to learn names, build meaningful connections, and sustain those relationships throughout the hospital.
Affectionately known as our CWO (“Chief Worry Officer”), Kathy began as our manager in the ED, and the breath of fresh air she brought has been felt by all over the past 10 years. She has a remarkable ability to turn any challenge into a teachable moment, always finding the positive in every situation. With her sense of humor and genuine warmth, she engages staff in a way that inspires us to be our best—not just for her, but for our patients and for one another.
One of Kathy’s sayings that will stay with us is, “People need to hear it seven times and seven ways before it becomes the truth.” That philosophy reflects her deep commitment to communication, understanding, and ongoing staff education—values we will continue to carry forward.
Kathy truly leads from the front. It is not uncommon to find her answering call lights, changing stretcher linens, transporting patients from PACU to the floors, or—most recently—learning our new IV pumps “to help silence the alarms.” These moments reflect her deep commitment to teamwork and her willingness to step in wherever she is needed.
She is also a passionate and powerful advocate for nursing practice and the continued advancement of the profession. Kathy leads with both strength and compassion, creating an environment where nurses feel valued, empowered, and inspired to deliver the highest level of care.
Her positivity is not just something she demonstrates—it is something she instills in those around her. The impact she has had on individuals, teams, and the organization as a whole is both profound and lasting.
To say she will be missed is an understatement. The legacy Kathy leaves behind—one of excellence, compassion, and unwavering dedication—will continue to shape MEE for years to come and will be incredibly difficult to replace.
Affectionately known as our CWO (“Chief Worry Officer”), Kathy began as our manager in the ED, and the breath of fresh air she brought has been felt by all over the past 10 years. She has a remarkable ability to turn any challenge into a teachable moment, always finding the positive in every situation. With her sense of humor and genuine warmth, she engages staff in a way that inspires us to be our best—not just for her, but for our patients and for one another.
One of Kathy’s sayings that will stay with us is, “People need to hear it seven times and seven ways before it becomes the truth.” That philosophy reflects her deep commitment to communication, understanding, and ongoing staff education—values we will continue to carry forward.
Kathy truly leads from the front. It is not uncommon to find her answering call lights, changing stretcher linens, transporting patients from PACU to the floors, or—most recently—learning our new IV pumps “to help silence the alarms.” These moments reflect her deep commitment to teamwork and her willingness to step in wherever she is needed.
She is also a passionate and powerful advocate for nursing practice and the continued advancement of the profession. Kathy leads with both strength and compassion, creating an environment where nurses feel valued, empowered, and inspired to deliver the highest level of care.
Her positivity is not just something she demonstrates—it is something she instills in those around her. The impact she has had on individuals, teams, and the organization as a whole is both profound and lasting.
To say she will be missed is an understatement. The legacy Kathy leaves behind—one of excellence, compassion, and unwavering dedication—will continue to shape MEE for years to come and will be incredibly difficult to replace.
Thank you, Kathleen, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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