As both a colleague and a friend, I have had the privilege of witnessing her demonstrate the compassion, kindness, professionalism, and dedication that define exceptional nursing. She embodies every quality I would hope for in a nurse caring for myself or a loved one. C.O. is a strong advocate for the health and safety of both her patients and her coworkers.

Her commitment to excellence is evident in her clinical practice, her leadership, and the way she fosters a positive and supportive environment for everyone around her. She has served in several key roles, including chair of R4, charge nurse, and preceptor, and in each capacity, she exemplifies leadership, inclusivity, and professionalism.

As chair of R4, she helped elevate the council through her organizational skills, clear communication, and thoughtful leadership. Her ability to bring people together and make everyone feel included and heard is one of her many strengths. One of the most striking aspects of this nurse’s character is her approachability. She is always willing to lend a hand, especially when she senses that someone is struggling.

Her journey began as a float nurse between the telemetry unit and the ICU. She transitioned gracefully into a full-time ICU staff nurse, embracing every challenge with resilience and a consistently positive attitude. She has truly become an integral part of the ICU team, modeling professionalism and flexibility through change.

Beyond her clinical work, she brings joy and enthusiasm to the workplace. During Hobby Day, she proudly shared her diverse interests with great enthusiasm, reminding us all of the importance of work-life balance and personal passion. Her impact on her patients, peers, and the nursing profession is profound and everlasting.