Jimmie leads from a place of presence, love, and authentic service. She shows up each day not simply to complete tasks or manage operations, but to be the healing environment for patients, colleagues, and the community she so lovingly serves. Her leadership is grounded in compassion and anchored in deep human connection.

One moment that reflects the heart of who Jimmie is occurred when an elderly patient experienced a traumatic medical event. Without prompting, Jimmie quietly entered the room, sat beside the patient, held her hand, and gently whispered:

“You’re safe. I’m here.”

It was a simple act, but in that moment, it transformed the space into one of safety, trust, and peace. This is how Jimmie leads, not from authority, but from love.

Jimmie has a special way of connecting with patients whom others may label “difficult.” She understands that such labels often point to unmet needs, unspoken pain, or a history that hasn’t yet been heard. Instead of avoiding these patients, she intentionally seeks them out. She listens deeply, sees beyond behavior, and honors the full humanity of each person.

Her presence is genuine, humble, and grounded in curiosity. She lets go of ego and centers the experience of the person in front of her. Whether it’s a patient in distress or a nurse in doubt, Jimmie shows up fully, offering calm, clarity, and connection. She holds space for both joy and sorrow, recognizing that allowing room for emotional expression is essential to healing.

In her presence, people feel safe to be real, to feel deeply, and to trust again.

Jimmie’s care and influence extend far beyond the walls of the hospital. In her own neighborhood, she is a source of comfort, health guidance, and reassurance. Neighbors call her if a loved one is sick, or even if they suspect someone is hiding in the bushes. They trust her presence because it brings peace and protection. She is not just a nurse leader; she is a healer in every environment she touches.

In our professional space, Jimmie continues to lift others. She freely gives her time to mentor colleagues, including teaching in our KP Cares 2.0 program, a four-month, four-session experience for nurse residents and emerging leaders. She doesn’t just teach leadership skills; she teaches how to lead with heart, with consciousness, and with care.

She nourishes her team in quiet, thoughtful ways, dropping off a cold drink, a container of fruit, or a wholesome meal from a recent trip to Trader Joe’s. Sometimes she leaves a lavender candle or a fresh flower on a colleague’s desk with the unspoken message:

“I see you. You matter.”

These acts of kindness, though simple, powerfully reinforce that caring is not an extra; it is the essence of who we are called to be.

Jimmie Nickleberry does not just support a healing environment; she is the healing environment.

She lives the principles of Caring Science through her actions, her energy, and her unwavering presence. She inspires every one of us to slow down, see each other clearly, and return to what matters most: human connection, compassion, and care.

Please join me in celebrating Jimmie for all that she is and all that she offers. She is the heart of our organization