Virginia Bellew treats every person she encounters as if they are special and already a friend. Her warm demeanor puts every employee at ease. 

She works within the clinic as an official educator, but she is also willing to provide education to anyone who needs it. During a short-staffed season, I had to take leave and was incredibly anxious about leaving my team so understaffed. Virginia did not hesitate to step up and offered to shoulder the majority of my load in teaching sessions, which quelled my anxiety. I was able to take leave knowing the team and the residents were in good hands.

As I have worked with Virginia for over a year, I am aware that this is a common practice for her. I have seen her repeatedly sign up to help others with whatever project they are working on or if they take a vacation. She contributes wherever she can and makes the recipient feel like it will not be a burden to her.

Virginia also provides education during SOAR to our new nurses. As someone who went through SOAR again, I got to see how she teaches and interacts with all our new employees. At times, she will be teaching and discover that a new employee is doing a skill incorrectly. She gently explains why this is incorrect and reinforces the correct way. She does not belittle anyone or chastise them but provides a thorough response while allowing time for them to repeat the skill.

Virginia displays incredible patience and a dedication to safety and best practice. Her ability to consistently reinforce our standards of care is something I aspire to do. Virginia is also creative and willing to look outside of the box for education. She has been invaluable to my department in developing case studies, simulation experiences, and engaging interactive games. Virginia provides fidget toys for new employees who have trouble sitting still. She is a charismatic presenter and engages the audience well. Virginia is instrumental in preparing our new employees for practice, and they often return to ask questions and seek help. She never turns anyone away who needs to talk, even though she is incredibly busy. She gives that person her undivided attention and makes them feel valued and important.

Seeing her example of how to treat our fellow coworkers and employees makes me want to be better and more available. I am incredibly grateful for a coworker like Virginia, who has helped me so much this year as I grow in my new profession as an educator. Please consider Virginia for this award as she not only plays a role in onboarding our new staff and current clinical staff, but she is an amazing coworker who supports many