Ashley Chavez
September 2024
Ashley
Chavez
,
BSN, RN, AMB-BC, CRN
Radiology
Midland Memorial Hospital
Midland
,
TX
United States

 

 

 

Ashley doesn’t just lead; she changes lives. Her positive energy and genuine kindness uplift everyone around her, creating a space where we feel motivated and empowered to thrive.
Ashley Chavez is recognized with the DAISY Nurse Leader Award

Honoring a Legacy of Leadership, Compassion, and Dedication

At Midland Memorial Hospital, the spirit of nursing thrives in the hands and heart of Ashley Chavez, BSN, RN, AMB-BC, CRN, Clinical Manager for Interventional Radiology. Known for her kindness, relentless dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Ashley has been honored with the DAISY Nurse Leader Award®. This global recognition not only highlights her extraordinary leadership but also celebrates the profound impact she has made on her team, her patients, and the healthcare community.

Ashley isn’t just a nurse; she is a beacon of hope and strength, inspiring those around her to rise to their fullest potential. The DAISY Award holds particular significance—it’s not just a plaque or title. It’s a testament to the compassion, resilience, and tireless effort nurses pour into their work every day. For Ashley, it is the culmination of a career defined by connection and care.

Ashley’s leadership is more than just guiding her team—it’s about lifting each member up, making them feel valued, heard, and empowered. Her colleagues’ words paint a picture of a leader who combines professional expertise with a warm heart.

One nominator eloquently wrote, “Ashley has worked diligently to create an environment where both radiology techs and nurses feel supported and listened to. She encourages open communication, teamwork, and collaboration.” They added, “She leads us with a positive attitude and is always willing to roll up her sleeves, setting an example by recently earning two national certifications—Ambulatory Care and Certified Radiology Nurse.”

Her ability to build trust within her team has transformed their work environment into a haven of support and motivation. Tory Dean, one of her colleagues, shared, “Ashley doesn’t just lead; she changes lives. Her positive energy and genuine kindness uplift everyone around her, creating a space where we feel motivated and empowered to thrive. She’s our biggest advocate, ensuring we have the resources and support to succeed.”

Ashley’s impact extends beyond her team to every patient interaction, where her empathy shines through. "She creates a safe and caring environment for patients,” said Andy DeGuzman, another colleague. “And she’s committed to continuous learning and ensuring her team has opportunities to grow.”

Ashley’s rise in nursing is a story of grit, determination, and an unwavering passion for patient care. Starting as a CNA in home health, she found herself deeply inspired by the connections she built with elderly patients. Their stories, struggles, and needs shaped her vision of nursing as an act of love as much as a profession.

From there, Ashley’s path led her through different pillars of healthcare—long-term care, ICU, and, finally, Interventional Radiology, where she now leads with grace. Reflecting on her lifelong mission, Ashley shared, “Nursing has always been about connection for me—connection with my colleagues and our patients. I’ve worked hard to foster trust within my team by maintaining open communication and following through on what I say. Trust is the foundation of everything we do."

Outside the hospital, Ashley finds solace on her small farm, surrounded by the rhythm of nature and the playful antics of goats, chickens, donkeys, and cows. This retreat replenishes her spirit and strengthens the balance she carries into her demanding role as a nurse leader. Her personal grounding reflects the same values she embodies in her professional life—dedication, balance, and care.

The DAISY Award is not merely an acknowledgment; it is a global tribute to the compassion, skill, and commitment of nurses who go above and beyond in their roles. Established by the DAISY Foundation in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, this award honors nurses who make a profound difference through their kindness and human-centered care.

At Midland Health, the DAISY Award occupies a cherished place, with over 150 nurses recognized to date. This honor showcases individuals who embody values like compassion, advocacy, and mentorship—Ashley Chavez radiates all of these qualities and more.

Her success is a reminder of the incredible difference nurse leaders can make. Alex Dinsmore, a colleague, summed up the pride of Ashley’s team, saying, “Ashley has managed both nurses and radiology techs with an unparalleled balance. She encourages collaboration, compassion, and teamwork, making her a true role model in nursing.”

Ashley’s story is a celebration of resilience, dedication, and heart. Her colleagues’ admiration mirrors the lives touched by her care and leadership. Her patients’ well-being reflects the excellence she strives for every day. And her achievements remind us all of the tireless efforts nurses make to uphold the highest standard of healthcare.

Join us in celebrating Ashley Chavez and all the nurses who, like her, lead with compassion and integrity. Share her story, and in doing so, honor the broader community of healthcare leaders whose work exemplifies the very best of humanity.

Because when we recognize leaders like Ashley, we shine a light on what is possible—a future of healthcare driven by compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to others.