Nallely Zavala, BSN, RN, PCCN

Nallely is an incredible leader, colleague, and nurse on 6S TCU and ICU. She always comes into work with a positive attitude and a contagious smile, always willing to go above and beyond and help out whenever needed. She does not hesitate to jump into action, and she frequently rounds the unit offering help and advice.

One of her amazing qualities that makes her a fantastic leader for the unit is her ability to advocate for not only patients but for staff, as well, and bring about positive change that directly impacts patients and staff. Her involvement on the unit and personal relationships with all staff members make her an incredible asset. Thanks to her advocating for staff, staffing ratios have changed to account for high acuity patients, and overall safety measures have been adjusted to make staff feel safer on the unit.

As a leader, she makes frequent rounds to patients' rooms to address the care they have been receiving and discuss ways in which staff could improve the care they are providing. Her calming presence, positive attitude, and willingness to always listen allow her to have positive relationships with both patients and their family members. These qualities also help her effectively manage difficult patients, family members, and situations that arise.

Her involvement as a facilitator on our unit practice council (UPC) for fiscal year 2025-2026 was important in getting our practice council more involved and recognized around the unit. Her input, knowledge, and support helped our practice council gain recognition and bring about changes that directly impacted patient safety as well as overall unit morale. On top of all her other responsibilities that come with being in a leadership role, she made time to be an active facilitator for UPC and volunteered time to help with activities sponsored by UPC.

On a more personal note, Nallely is my mentor and has been with me since the beginning of my career at ChristianaCare as an SNE. She is an amazing mentor who always takes time to check in with me both personally and professionally, and I know I can always go to her for anything that comes up.

I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award than Nallely Zavala; she is a great example of who a leader should be, and I know a lot of other people would agree!

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I would like to recognize my assistant manager, Nallely, because she has had an incredible impact on my nursing journey, both professionally and personally. From the very beginning, she has been a constant source of encouragement, guidance, and support. She leads with compassion, patience, and integrity, creating an environment where I feel valued and empowered to grow.

She has taken the time to mentor me, answer my questions, and help me build my confidence as a nurse. Her belief in my abilities has helped me become a stronger nurse and a more confident member of our team here at 6 South.

What makes her truly exceptional is that her support extends beyond the workplace. She genuinely cares about the well-being of those she leads and is always willing to listen, offer encouragement, and help navigate both personal and professional challenges. She recognizes that great nurses need support too, and she consistently demonstrates empathy and kindness in every interaction.

She leads by example every day, showing what compassionate nursing and authentic leadership look like. Her dedication to her team inspires us to provide the highest quality care to our patients while also supporting one another.

I am a better nurse because of her mentorship, and I know many others have been positively impacted by her guidance as well. She exemplifies the values of the DAISY Award through her unwavering commitment to excellence, compassion, and service. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.