Barb has served our organization in many nursing leadership positions during her 40-plus years of service, all while maintaining a servant-leader mindset and always putting patient needs at the forefront of any decision she makes. Barb is a trusted resource for many new nurses, given her extensive knowledge in the field, and is truly invested in ensuring the longevity of rural healthcare for the next generation. Barb has served in the roles of staff nurse, House Supervisor, Chief Nursing Officer, MDS Manager, and in a multitude of other positions at various times when facility needs arose. During her tenure as CNO, West River Health Services was often referred to as the "Mayo of the Prairie" due to its reputation for providing high-quality healthcare within such a rural area and also received the prestigious distinction of being a Top 20 Critical Access Hospital for many consecutive years. In fact, despite trying to retire and spend more time with family, Barb has always answered the facilities call for help and stepped back into the role of Chief Nursing Officer on numerous instances. West River Health Services, specifically our staff and patients, have been beyond blessed to have Barb's expertise, professionalism, and enthusiasm for nursing services displayed within our healthcare system for so many years. Patients will often comment and voice being at ease when they see Barb's warm, welcoming smile or hear her gentle voice providing comfort during times of sorrow. One patient even remarked, "Barb is my angel on earth. 

When I was a new nursing leader in the acute care setting, I will never forget Barb's willingness to stay and work with me all night in the ICU to ensure that a ventilated patient received appropriate care. Outside of work, Barb is extremely active within her church and enjoys spending free time with family, especially those grandchildren who admire her dearly. With all the above in mind, I nominate Barb Stadheim, RN to be this year's DAISY Nurse Leader. In a world where healthcare and its delivery is changing fiercely, it is reassuring to know that we still have some Florence Nightingales working and walking among us to help preserve the future of nursing.