We, the 12 case managers who have the privilege of working under Daria St. Angelo, are honored to nominate her for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. Daria is not just our manager; she is our advocate, mentor, and the steady hand that guides us through the daily challenges of healthcare. Her support, clinical expertise, and genuine compassion create an environment where we feel heard, respected, and empowered. 
   
Role model for compassion and exemplary practices:                                                                                                                 

“Daria’s care, compassion, knowledge, and leadership skills led to a safe disposition for the patient.”
“She leads with care and compassion, not only for her staff but for patients and families as well.”
“She checks in on us not just as nurses, but as people… always there with thoughtful, supportive advice.”
“She leads with empathy and takes time to hear out our ideas.”     

Role model behavior perceived as exemplary:                                                                                                                             

“She never hesitates to step in when needed, showing her commitment to both her team and patient care.”                            “Daria always goes above and beyond to advocate for her staff as well as patients and families.”
“She exemplifies what a nurse leader should be.”
“She’s the kind of leader who not only guides but also inspires.”
“She’s a team player and thinks of her staff first before her own needs.” 

Creates an environment that fosters compassion:                                                                                                                        

“Her approachable leadership and sense of humor bring relief in stressful moments.”                                                                “Supportive, understanding, and has a great sense of humor that keeps us all sane.”                                                                “She creates a culture of positivity, trust, respect, and collaboration.”                                                                                           “She fosters a culture of collaboration, recognizing the strength of each team member.” 

Creates an environment where trust, compassion, mutual respect, professional development, and ethical behavior are modeled and supported:

“She empowers staff with autonomy to participate in committees and pursue career advancement opportunities while actively encouraging them to contribute ideas for improving workflow efficiency.” 

Motivates staff with shared vision and enthusiasm to achieve better outcomes:                                                                           
“Daria has assisted with decreasing and maintaining length of stay. She is a facilitator of the complex care rounds where she leads multidisciplinary collaboration.”                                                                                                                                            “A constant advocate for the CM team, making sure our needs are met and voices are heard.”                                                  “Having a manager like Daria makes all the difference.”                                                                                                                “She encourages us to be the best version of ourselves.”                                                                                                            “Leads multidisciplinary collaboration– decreased and maintained length of stay.

Is a mentor to staff:                                                                                                                                                                     

“During my orientation, Daria checked in with me daily, ensuring everything ran smoothly and I had the support I needed.”      “Mentors us and leads by example.”                                                                                                                                            “Provides level-headed advice and immediate support.”                                                                                                            “Committed to providing accurate guidance and follows up consistently.” 

Accessible, available, and responsive to needs; encourages critical thinking and problem-solving: 

“She’s always available not only to physically assist but as a listening ear when approached. Daria demonstrates strength when advocating for her team.”                                                                                                                                                    “Always available to assist, no question too small.”                                                                                                                    “Steps in to help with difficult discharges or emergency cases.”                                                                                                   “Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving… empowers the team.”                                                                                 “Jumps in when staff are absent and helps the team problem-solve.” 

Promotes and enhances the image of nursing within the organization, community, and profession:                                          

“She is the kind of leader who not only guides, but also inspires, ensuring that case managers and patients alike receive the best care and support possible.”                                                                                                                                                  “Her leadership has a lasting impact on patient outcomes and team growth.”
“She embodies the very essence of nursing excellence.”
“She’s the cornerstone of our unit and a role model for the profession.”