LT Stonionis is an exceptional junior nurse officer who demonstrates natural leadership abilities, outstanding interpersonal skills, and is an inspiration to other nurses within IHSC. Since beginning her career as a newly graduated staff nurse through SRCOSTEP, LT Stonionis has fostered a strong positive work environment and significantly contributed to Nursing Services at IHSC Houston, a dynamic 1,000-bed ICE facility. For the last 3.5 years, throughout a global pandemic and extensive construction/remodeling of the facility clinic, LT Stonionis readily accepted the challenge of serving as Acting Nurse Manager (O-6) as needed, providing supervisory guidance to 36 nurses while filling a critical administrative role. 

She regularly trains new employees, conducts educational trainings, and identifies/implements innovative solutions to streamline clinic processes and efficiency. She encourages others to perform to their maximum potential through providing mentorship, advocating for others, and collaborating with inclusiveness, fairness, and a team mentality. Her one-on-one mentorship/coaching with fellow colleagues has resulted in 2 PHS applications and 3 additional civilian participants in annual USPHS Exercise Challenge. As a member of the Party Planning Committee, she supports recognition of staff through organizing holiday, birthday, and milestone celebrations, promoting a sense of community and value among the workforce. 

She also frequently volunteers for TDY travel assignments to other ICE facilities, supplementing critical staffing shortages and preventing worker burnout. While consistently going above and beyond in support of mission needs, LT Stonionis maintains an approachable, compassionate disposition and an eagerness to serve/grow, which she spreads to all who work with her.