Tamra is an exceptional nurse leader within her department. She recognizes the importance of caring for her staff, who care for our patients. She has a compassionate attitude and is always ready to step in and lend a helping hand. She models professionalism and kindness in all her interactions with staff and patients, even in times of high stress and conflict. Tamra is also a champion of encouragement. I lovingly refer to her as the “Kudos Queen,” as she very much recognizes the value of acknowledging a job well done. No success is too small. Tamra is invested in the professional development of her nurses. Tamra is a prime example of a transformational leader. It is an absolute honor and privilege to work with her. She is too shy to ever accept praise, but I think that is why it is all the more important that we recognize what an exemplary impact she has on our patients, on our staff, and on the culture of our organization.

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I had been a CN for a few months at the time, and I knew that my other 2 CNs, 1 was retiring, and the other 1 wasn’t going to be a CN because she wanted to be in a higher position. At that time, I have the vision and plans to change the culture of the unit, but who will be my partner to do this? From my A team at that time, I personally talked to Tami and asked her to take the position, and we will help each other to change the culture of the unit. Since then we were successful in changing the culture, our scores is always in roof, we got a lot of thank you letters and pt commendation. Then the rest is history until now. Tamra is a generous leader, not only with her skills but with everything in her life. She is very devoted to the needs of our pt and likewise to our staff. Her artistry is immeasurable, with full of ideas and sense of humor. She always represents 1 East in different competitions like the pumpkin curving contest and the gingerbread contest. Her desire to teach is always there, especially with new grads and during skills fairs. Tami is a great leader, she always fights for what is right and condemns what is wrong. 

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Tamra is an outstanding nurse leader. Her dedication to nursing excellence and commitment to fostering a positive and collaborative work environment make her truly deserving of the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. Tamra's leadership shines through in every aspect, and we are thrilled to celebrate her as a recipient of this well-earned honor. 

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From the moment I started on 1 East, I was graced with the wonderful presence that is Tamra. I vividly recall moments where I felt like I was "drowning" in my tasks as a staff nurse, and she was always there as a beacon of encouragement, guidance, and support. In her unique, charismatic, and often times, hilarious ways, Tamra was always there to remind me that everything was going to be okay, lifting my spirits and instilling confidence in my abilities when I needed it most. To this day, her leadership continues to resonate with her unit and staff. She always demonstrates what it means to be a true leader through her dedication to nursing excellence within herself and her staff. She shows her commitment to fostering that positive and collaborative work environment because in addition to a nurse leader, she is also our biggest cheerleader, advocate, guidance counselor and much more. She is always boots on the ground, celebrating our successes and lifting our spirits during challenging times. Tamra has an incredible ability to connect with her team on a personal level as she makes an effort to know her staff and shares her amazing stories, as well. Her genuine care and concern for the well-being of each team member fosters a sense of unity and inclusion that can sometimes be rare in a workplace. Tamra's creativity shines through as she goes above and beyond her role and is basically CSMDRH Pinterest in human form. She brings joy and a sense of community and inspires curiosity in the workplace with her art projects, unit decorations, and shared governance involvement. Tamra embodies the qualities of an extraordinary leader, mentor, and friend. What sets Tamra apart is her intuitive nature. She knows exactly when to advocate, comfort us, make us laugh, or lend a helping hand…almost as if she can read our minds. I know that I feel safe and heard when talking to her, and I know that she also creates an environment where each team member feels understood and supported in ways that go beyond the conventional expectations of a leader. We are lucky to have you as a leader! Never change, Tam!