I believe Melissa Novacich deserves recognition as a DAISY Nurse Leader because she excels in each of the five roles defined in our SSM Health Professional Practice Model. Melissa began her SSM career as a staff RN in the Imaging and Special Procedures department.  We have long had a culture of mutual respect and genuine care for one another.  Melissa not only assimilated into that culture, but she now fosters it as our leader. She is honest and fair in her decisions, which builds trust within the team.  She encourages professional development by helping staff align their interests with educational and service opportunities.  Melissa is quick to assist with patient care on the floor.  She encourages independent thinking but recognizes the skill sets everyone brings to the table.  

Melissa's goal is clearly exceptional outcomes, and she has a unique ability to motivate staff to focus on that goal. Melissa brings administrative and organizational goals back to her team, serving as a liaison as she guides our group in identifying actions we can take to realize those goals.  Melissa is the first to hold herself accountable for the performance, skills, knowledge, and employee satisfaction of our work group.  She is sure to acknowledge when a different choice may have produced a better outcome, and she has been humble as she has grown in her leadership role.  Her example has created an environment where staff also feel comfortable accepting constructive criticism or voicing when they identify their own weakness.  Occurrences are truly treated as learning opportunities, and with Melissa's leadership, we check each other regularly.  Melissa regularly presents evidence-based practice developments in staff meetings and informal huddles.  

Her personal and professional care of each staff member is palpable.  Melissa celebrates staff milestones such as birthdays, babies, and weddings.  She organizes cards and gift baskets when staff have personal struggles or illnesses.  She adjusts schedules, even her own, to give each employee the opportunity to attend their special events or time to address personal challenges.  The Imaging, Special Procedures, IVR, Vascular Access, and Cardiac Cath departments provide exceptional care and maintain high staff and provider engagement through the leadership of Melissa Novacich.