As philosopher Lao Tzu one said, “A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves”. It is truly an honor to work alongside Nick. Both unit and enterprise-wide, he is well known for his kindness, humor, dedication, and engagement, but above all his selflessness. Although Nick has given innumerable offerings of meaningful recognition to his colleagues, including letters of recommendation and an award-winning DAISY nomination, he has yet to utilize his leadership position to ascend the clinical ladder himself. This is in large part because of the immensity of his commitments to others.

When our unit was first opened, there was a significant shortage of Resource RNs for the night shift. Nick unhesitatingly volunteered to support the unit and for many months worked a rotating schedule to help shoulder the burden of the resource nurse role until more people were effectively trained on the night shift. He has also been a constant source of support and encouragement for colleagues on the unit as we assume new leadership roles, for example, the float nurse role. This has impacted me on a personal level.

When I was new to the float role, I was both intimidated and anxious about being able to adequately support my colleagues in delivering excellent care to our patients. As the trauma/general surgery unit, we care for an incredibly diverse patient population, many with pre-existing, complex, psychosocial challenges. Nick encouraged me, offered me tips to improve my workflow, and bolstered my confidence in my own abilities. He is beloved on both the unit and research council for his steadfast, supportive encouragement. It is with a heart full of appreciation that I submit Nick for the DAISY Award.

As the current Chair of the SLC Research Council, Nick is heavily involved at the forefront of Stanford research. One of his current research projects involves analyzing the impact of COVID-19 on nurses across the acuity spectrum at Stanford. This project involves reflection on multiple domains including patient care, social experiences, and emotional wellness. As the world continues its embattled struggle against the pandemic, this study will provide invaluable insight into the myriad ways the virus has impacted nurses, as well as solutions and interventions on our path forward. This is an enormous undertaking, and demonstrative of Nick’s consistent focus on solutions, growth, and improvement. This project has the potential to benefit nurses both nationally and globally.

For this endeavor, there is no greater leader than Nick. If he has one flaw, it is that Nick is humble to a fault, and has largely eschewed the pursuit of recognition for his accomplishments. I hope you all will join me in amending this travesty, and help to finally deliver the well-earned praise, recognition, and accolades he deserves by voting for Nick for the DAISY Award. Nick truly exemplifies compassionate, excellent, selfless care for his patients, his colleagues, Stanford as an enterprise, and nurses around the world.