Over the last three years that I’ve worked with Dani, she has primarily served as our department supervisor but has stepped up as interim manager twice. When we learned that Kate Buehler was being promoted to Director, our entire team strongly felt it was Dani’s time to shine—and she has. Her promotion to Manager of the Emergency Department was a natural next step, and she has embraced the role with grace, vision, and integrity.

Innovation
Dani is a leader who welcomes innovation and fosters a culture of open dialogue. She listens to her team and actively seeks input when considering process changes. A great example of this is when she led a restructuring of our tech assignments. Traditionally, techs were assigned to zones, but this model didn’t adequately cover hallway beds—leading to confusion and gaps in care. Dani brought together a team of nurses and techs to discuss and redesign the process. This collaboration empowered staff and led to a more effective system. Her ability to promote autonomy and involve staff in decisions exemplifies her innovative leadership.

Teamwork
Dani’s transition to Manager has been seamless, largely due to her history of collaboration and proactive engagement. Her time as interim manager allowed her to grow professionally and prepare for this role. Even as a supervisor, she consistently took on special projects that expanded her leadership footprint and strengthened connections across the organization. Dani has always prioritized teamwork, ensuring that the success of the department is shared and sustained through collective effort.

Excellence
Dani holds herself and her team to high standards. When she was tasked with reducing patient falls in the ED, she quickly recognized that the existing fall audit tool wasn’t effective for our environment. She conducted research and identified a more suitable tool tailored for emergency care. Her initiative not only led to improved tracking but also helped us work toward meeting our FY25 fall reduction goals. Her commitment to excellence drives real outcomes for our patients and team.

Accountability
One of Dani’s greatest strengths is her ability to hold staff accountable in a fair and respectful way. She walks the fine line between maintaining professional expectations and fostering strong relationships. Because of this, she’s earned the respect of her team and inspires a culture of accountability. Dani has led numerous successful initiatives with full staff buy-in—a testament to her thoughtful and inclusive leadership style.

Courage
Transitioning from supervisor to manager is no small feat, and Dani did it while balancing a very full personal life—she’s a mother to four young, active children. Her decision to take on this leadership role reflects her courage and dedication. She models the ITEACH values daily, setting a powerful example for others striving for balance and professional growth.

Healing
Dani is deeply committed to the well-being of her team. After a recent pulse survey results indicated concerns about staff safety, she took immediate action—reaching out to team members and beginning the process of identifying solutions. While this initiative is still in its early stages, there’s no doubt Dani will see it through with the same tenacity and heart she brings to all her work.

Dani Schulz is an extraordinary leader who embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award. Her innovation, collaboration, commitment to excellence, and compassion make her an invaluable asset to our department and a true role model in nursing leadership.