Over a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years, Valerie has exemplified extraordinary commitment, compassion, and professionalism in every role she has undertaken. Her unwavering dedication to exemplary patient care, strong leadership, and focus on quality improvement are truly commendable.

Valerie’s remarkable ability to engage personally with patients, families, and staff distinguishes her within our organization. She consistently allocates time to listen to concerns, provide comfort, and ensure individuals feel respected and understood. Her empathetic approach has positively influenced countless patients and their families.

Valerie’s professional achievements are significant. She has demonstrated growth from her early days as a certified nursing assistant to her current position as nurse manager. Her pursuit of knowledge, including attainment of an MSN degree, multiple certifications, and roles such as clinical nurse leader, reflects her commitment to lifelong learning. Valerie’s numerous accolades, including the Great 100 Nurses Award of NC, further underscore her impact.

Her expertise spans a wide range of specialties, including medical-surgical, cardiac, emergency department, and more. Valerie’s passion for delivering high-quality, compassionate care is evident throughout her journey. Notably, her initiatives in the cardiac department have improved patient mobility outcomes, while her work in the emergency department, highlighted by the LEAN initiative, optimized flow and capacity by facilitating patient transfers and increasing bed availability.

Valerie has worked on various process improvement work, including decreasing thoracic length of stay, mobility, GetWELL network compliance, tracking and monitoring of CTICU length of stay for the surgical population, and managing Weekly Improvement work. Valerie rose to the occasion by taking the lead on improving patient outcomes and length of stay by facilitating the operationalization of the Vascular Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) work. She worked to bring evidence-based practice to the bedside by working at the microsystem and macrosystem levels within her organization.

Her dedication was evident when she went above and beyond to support a patient facing hardship. She not only provided comprehensive clinical care but also devoted additional time to offer emotional support to both the patient and their family. Another instance involved bringing hair products and providing personal care for a long-term patient, demonstrating her hands-on engagement as a nurse manager.

Valerie remains highly visible and approachable, consistently rounding on the unit and actively engaging with patients, families, and staff. Valerie is recognized as an outstanding team player who supports colleagues, shares her expertise, and fosters a positive, collaborative environment. Her positive attitude and consistent willingness to exceed expectations make her an invaluable asset to our team.

In her leadership role, Valerie has mentored and encouraged numerous professionals, resulting in a near doubling of nurses with advanced degrees and certifications. In addition, she balances her managerial responsibilities with teaching as a clinical instructor to BSN students, further contributing to the development of the next generation of nurses.

Under her leadership, her unit has achieved significant advancements, including a 50% reduction in HAPIs, maintenance of zero CLABSIs for over two years, and a 50% decrease in CAUTIs within one year. Valerie has actively participated in nursing organizations as well as her Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

Valerie embodies the attributes of a DAISY Award recipient. Her compassion, commitment, and professionalism continuously enhance our organization, and make her a truly extraordinary Nurse Leader.