Carol exemplifies the heart and skill of an outstanding nurse educator. She checks in on the team often to make sure they are doing okay, showing care for the “person” before the “student.” She notices when staff feel overwhelmed and walks them through challenges without judgment. She keeps management aware of concerns and always has a solution to meet the needs. She lets the team know she is available anytime and has even made it easy for staff to schedule a meeting with a QR code,  going above and beyond to connect!

Carol’s communication skills are excellent as she ensures everyone understands, regardless of experience level. She encourages questions and creates space for positive learning. The Nursing and PCA Fair she coordinated was creative, fun, and such a great approach to learning. She included an interactive Jeopardy game for PCAs that was raved about by the team. Anytime management reaches out to Carol for policies or procedures, she is quick to find resources if she is unsure and is always prompt with the information.

Carol consistently demonstrates best practices during skill training, modeling professionalism and patient-centered care. We have worked closely with Carol for this year’s skills lab to develop key learning scenarios specific to the Rehab patient population. Her insight and creativity have been amazing. She is very detailed and has a spreadsheet for all staff U-learn/CEU completions for the year, but it is her follow-up with staff that displays a professional pride in what she does.

She involves staff by sending out surveys and sharing an “Education Round-Up” email with an interactive Sway. We love how she creates new things to keep staff engaged.

She adjusts teaching plans using hands-on demonstration instead of lecture and incorporates different learning formats (videos, simulation, group discussion) to meet various learning styles. She responds positively to last-minute schedule changes or urgent care priorities, even adjusting her schedule and coming in on a Saturday for a staff member to complete their skills lab.

She reads and distributes relevant journal articles to stimulate discussion and critical thinking. She is a wealth of information and shares key takeaways with the team.

She has clear objectives so learners understand the expected outcomes. She uses specific, focused feedback rather than vague praise, asking clarifying questions and engaging staff in conversation to explore answers. She follows up with staff to reinforce strengths and offer resources for improvement.

Carol partners with management to align educational goals and needs. She maintains open communication with leadership and staff to ensure training addresses real-time needs. Carol plays a pivotal role in ensuring high-quality outcomes by educating, mentoring, and supporting the team.

Carol is an exceptional nurse educator. She is knowledgeable, dedicated to her profession, and committed to excellence.