In a time of crisis, we all have the potential to morph up to a new level and do things we never thought possible. As author Stuart Wilde once said, “During critical times, true leaders rise, do things they’ve potentially never done before, and set the stage for response and recovery.” Amanda Gartner has shown that she has the critical traits needed to lead not only on a day-to-day basis but especially during times of crisis. Specifically, during the COVID pandemic. She has an ability to see things for what they are and how they apply in reality. She is decisive, helping us learn and navigate the ever-changing guidelines needed to allow us to provide the safest environment for our patients and staff.

Amanda is likely the most organized and coordinated person I know. She is able to juggle multiple moving parts, envision the big picture impact, and can also get into the weeds and details if needed. She has continued to support her teams, building cohesion, coordination, and integration. Along with her team, Amanda has worked weekends and nights in response to the needs created by the pandemic. She has made sure her teams' needs are met, helping them navigate work from home, new schedules, and new roles. Amanda is a resource not only to our Health System but also to the county health department and other community partners.

Amanda has stayed focused on her teams’ personal needs – promoting resiliency and self-care. Throughout this pandemic, she has stayed steadfast in her focus on patient safety. Amanda is a great leader for her respective teams and colleagues. In addition, she has impacted the profession of Nursing and is sought out as a preceptor. She has also contributed to the profession of nursing by promoting and supporting education and certification. She functions as an Instructor, Adjust Faculty for the School of Nursing, and is sought out as a preceptor. She has contributed to the profession of nursing through publications and presentations. She has published in both nursing and medical journals and presented poster and podium presentations at local, regional, and national conferences. Amanda Gartner models true leadership through certification as well as education. She has a deep knowledge level and is also a lifelong learner, currently completing their DNP. Who gets their Doctorates in the middle of a pandemic? Amanda does! One word I want to be sure to include in my description of Amanda is “Adaptive”. A true leader has the capacity to adapt and respond to unique aspects of crisis and changing circumstances. She has shown her ability to “adapt” time after time. She has adapted to new teams, new diseases – like Ebola and COVID 19 and ever-changing new guidelines of care.