Nurse leaders serve in many roles throughout the hospital and Gaby Kaufman’s story demonstrates the many layers of leadership that influence positive outcomes for our patients and associates. Gaby began her nursing career at Children’s Hospital of Austin in 2003 as a clinical assistant. She grew with the hospital through expansions, location changes, and service line growth. She helped open the Intermediate Care Unit at CHOA in 2004 and move the hospital to the new Dell Children’s Medical Center campus in 2007. During that time, Gaby completed her BSN and started working as a nurse in the IMC in 2007. Her nursing leadership was noted early in the IMC. She trained all incoming clinical assistants, precepted new nurses, moved into the charge nurse role, and then became a day shift unit supervisor in 2012. In 2019, she transitioned to become the department supervisor of the newly opened Cardiac Care Unit. A trusted leader, who understood the intricacies of our hospital, to support the successful launch of this new unit. From clinical assistant to staff nurse, from charge nurse to supervisor, she was always present and willing to help with a smile. Through her many years of dedicated service, Gaby blossomed into a well-respected and valued leader throughout all of DCMC. Gaby created a community within the teams she led by serving as an advocate, resource, listener, problem solver, and mentor. Every department knew Gaby. Through her extensive knowledge base and expertise Gaby was able to predict the needs of the team and support staff proactively. As one co-worker said, “Gaby was the epitome of a true leader and friend.” She was able to connect with providers, new team members, executives, patients, and family members to create a community that fostered excellence. Dell Children's Medical Center was privileged to honor Gaby Kaufman with the presentation of the DAISY Nurse Leader Award to her family.

Note: This is Gaby's 2nd DAISY Award!