As an NPD, Heather plays a significant role in onboarding and ensuring the success of our new hires. She excels at creating a safe and collaborative environment with not only new staff members but also current staff. Because of this professional relationship, staff feel comfortable being vulnerable, discussing concerns and opportunities, as well as receiving constructive feedback. Heather listens to learn and is willing to go the extra mile to address the true root cause of issues. She is very open and welcoming and makes herself available to staff to discuss concerns or opportunities.

While onboarding is a large component of Heather’s role, she also has a passion for encouraging the continued growth of established staff. When staff identified there was a gap in knowledge around fecal bags, Heather partnered with a staff member who voiced an interest in helping with education initiatives to ensure staff needs were met. She also has taken over as chair of the Professional Development Council and has been instrumental in the success of the Innovation Workshop and the Member Collaborative on Professional Governance Days.

One of Heather’s strengths is the ability to remember the small details that are shared with her. This allows her to make meaningful relationships and makes those who work with her feel valued. She has a positive attitude and finds a way to tackle whatever is thrown her way. She partners with the interdisciplinary team and is often seen rounding on the units with the CNS or shift coordinators. When one of her team members is off work, Heather steps up and helps cover without complaint. She is quick to identify moments to celebrate and jumps in wholeheartedly to help make the celebration a success.