August 2026 Honoree
Tabitha Walker, RN
Tabitha stepped up to lead an RCI pilot program of nurses scattered throughout the VA. Her leadership skills have helped to form the group into a united Referral Coordination team that continues to grow and meet national standards under her care. She has been able to form us into a united team.
Tabitha is a great communicator. She provides clear, transparent, and accurate information in an environment of honesty and trust. This creates a safe place for discussion and feedback of information. She has earned our respect through listening and working closely with us. She often gives us a heads-up on important information and informs us of what to expect next. She will admit that sometimes, the information isn’t available yet and will deliver it to us promptly as soon as she gets it.
Tabitha has taken the time to get to know each of us personally and values everyone’s contributions and opinions. She has created a culture in which we are empowered to perform at our best and to provide the best possible care for our veterans. She is always available to assist us in any way and often advocates for our team as needed. On many occasions, she has endured crucial conversations with other disciplines that have made a huge difference in the flow of our workload.
Tabitha has led us confidently through times of uncertainty and change. She acts as our cheerleader to help us accept all the new things that are happening around us. She is an amazing supporter of our RCI team and makes us feel special. When we make errors in our work, she never reprimands us for this. Instead, she uses this as a teaching moment and educates us on the correct way to do things. No need to “tip toe” around her or “walk on eggshells.” She is always available and treats each of us with respect.
Tabitha exemplifies the spirit of the DAISY Award by leading with integrity, fostering excellence, and ensuring that both her team and the Veterans we serve receive the highest level of care. Tabitha’s leadership has truly made an impact.
Tabitha is a great communicator. She provides clear, transparent, and accurate information in an environment of honesty and trust. This creates a safe place for discussion and feedback of information. She has earned our respect through listening and working closely with us. She often gives us a heads-up on important information and informs us of what to expect next. She will admit that sometimes, the information isn’t available yet and will deliver it to us promptly as soon as she gets it.
Tabitha has taken the time to get to know each of us personally and values everyone’s contributions and opinions. She has created a culture in which we are empowered to perform at our best and to provide the best possible care for our veterans. She is always available to assist us in any way and often advocates for our team as needed. On many occasions, she has endured crucial conversations with other disciplines that have made a huge difference in the flow of our workload.
Tabitha has led us confidently through times of uncertainty and change. She acts as our cheerleader to help us accept all the new things that are happening around us. She is an amazing supporter of our RCI team and makes us feel special. When we make errors in our work, she never reprimands us for this. Instead, she uses this as a teaching moment and educates us on the correct way to do things. No need to “tip toe” around her or “walk on eggshells.” She is always available and treats each of us with respect.
Tabitha exemplifies the spirit of the DAISY Award by leading with integrity, fostering excellence, and ensuring that both her team and the Veterans we serve receive the highest level of care. Tabitha’s leadership has truly made an impact.
Thank you, Tabitha, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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