According to Sr. Betty Granger, SSJ, who served as a Senior Vice President of Mission Integration, "A real leader is someone who awakens individuals to possibilities they don't see. Good leaders lead because they somehow inhabit the privilege and burden of vision and they are called to be that kind of frontier. Leaders with vision, love what they do and care passionately in sharing a vision...they set fire to the hearts of others in shaping and living the vision."
This leader is like a lighted match in a dark room whose solitary flame unites and sets fire to those around her. This heartful leader ignites and inspires others with her warmth, courage, passion, and wisdom. She is not afraid to open the door to resistance and let in - it just ignites her to guide and challenge her team to greatness because it is the right thing to do. She creates an environment of trust, respect, and accountability for each member of the team, and expects the same in return, ultimately creating a healing culture for associates and those they serve.
Over time you can see how her study of holistic nursing, Caritas Coach training, and certification in HeartMath is deeply embedded in her way of being. Oh, and let's not forget humor. Nancy, an extraordinary storyteller, was asked (strong-armed depending on who you ask) to speak at our recent Holistic Nursing Conference. She shared real-life stories of being a nurse with sensitivity, honor, and of course, humor bringing laughter, tears, and gratitude for what nurses do. The pizza tagline "hot and ready" has a whole new meaning for those who attended.
Nancy Cassisa is a true DAISY Nurse Leader!
Note: This is Nancy's 2nd DAISY Award!