I am honored to recognize Amy Phillips for her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to our culture of nursing excellence. As a nurse at Children’s Nebraska for the past 35 years, she has been a foundational catalyst in not only pursuing but also maintaining our Magnet designations since 2006. She fosters and promotes a professional environment that reflects the Magnet principles of transformational leadership, structural empowerment, exemplary professional practice, and new knowledge and innovation.

Every day, this is evidenced by her consistent leadership in evidence-based practice, research, process improvement, and her wicked brilliance in quality and safety that touches the entire nursing division. In 2025, Amy was closely involved in drafting the 3,500-page 5th Magnet document, an accomplishment that required strong leadership, commitment, and a deep understanding of the Magnet principles. Amy was able to connect the Magnet principles with our nurses’ everyday practice, showcasing their remarkable excellence in nursing through strong outcomes in over 100 stories. This is not an easy feat, but Amy’s wealth of experience and knowledge of nursing practice and quality made the process go smoothly.

Amy was also an exceptional mentor and coach for several nurses who supported writing the Magnet document for the first time. She was a lifeline to them when questions came up, or a perspective was needed on whether a story and an outcome would match the Magnet principles. Her support and love for the professional growth of others were evident during the Magnet writing process! Amy is a legendary nurse at Children’s Nebraska and truly the epitome of when I think of the “image of nursing”. Her calm presence, expertise, wisdom, and professionalism (with a touch of sarcasm) make her the best partner to collaborate with!

Amy’s impact on Children’s Nebraska and so many individual nurses over the last 35 years is deeply felt.