August 2026 Honoree
Jessica Paez, MSN, RN
Jessica exemplifies what it means to be a compassionate and effective nurse leader. She is consistently attentive to the needs of both her staff and her patients, never hesitating to step in wherever she is needed most. Even in her leadership role, she willingly goes out onto the floor to assist with direct patient care and has even come in to work night shifts during critical staffing shortages to ensure both patients and staff are supported.
Jessica is a strong advocate for her team. Even when faced with pushback, she stands up for her staff and works tirelessly to ensure their voices are heard. She fosters an environment where staff feel respected and valued by actively listening to our concerns and thoughtfully considering our input when making decisions that impact the unit. At the same time, she balances autonomy with accountability, encouraging professional growth while maintaining high standards of care.
One of Jessica's greatest strengths is her compassion and empathy. She celebrates our successes and recognizes the hard work of her team, helping create a positive and encouraging workplace culture. During difficult times, she has coordinated support for staff and families in need, especially during the holidays and other challenging circumstances. Her kindness and generosity have made a meaningful difference in the lives of many employees.
Beyond the hospital, Jessica volunteers within the community and proudly promotes our organization through her actions and leadership. She leads with integrity, empathy, and a true commitment to compassionate care. Jessica is the type of leader who inspires others, uplifts her team, and positively impacts everyone around her. She is deeply deserving of recognition through the DAISY Award.
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Jess is everything anyone would want in a leader and more. I have been so blessed to have had her as my leader for the past 4 years. She is always a phone call away in situations we aren't so sure about, like what to do or whom to call. She works hard to make sure we are always staffed and has come in herself when there was nobody else to meet safe staffing requirements.
She always checks on our mental health after something heavy has happened. She starts her day rounding to check on us and see if we need anything for the day.
Today, for example, reminded me just how lucky we are to have her. It was early in the shift with little staffing, and we received a cardiac arrest. She heard and came straight over as a helping hand and resource. She stayed with the patient to do post-mortem care, was so thoughtful in making sure everything was perfect for the family, and coordinated with investigators. She also answered phone calls and cleaned rooms while everyone else was busy.
She is a leader who leads by example, and I'm so glad I get to learn from her.
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Jessica is also a DAISY Award Honoree!
Jessica is a strong advocate for her team. Even when faced with pushback, she stands up for her staff and works tirelessly to ensure their voices are heard. She fosters an environment where staff feel respected and valued by actively listening to our concerns and thoughtfully considering our input when making decisions that impact the unit. At the same time, she balances autonomy with accountability, encouraging professional growth while maintaining high standards of care.
One of Jessica's greatest strengths is her compassion and empathy. She celebrates our successes and recognizes the hard work of her team, helping create a positive and encouraging workplace culture. During difficult times, she has coordinated support for staff and families in need, especially during the holidays and other challenging circumstances. Her kindness and generosity have made a meaningful difference in the lives of many employees.
Beyond the hospital, Jessica volunteers within the community and proudly promotes our organization through her actions and leadership. She leads with integrity, empathy, and a true commitment to compassionate care. Jessica is the type of leader who inspires others, uplifts her team, and positively impacts everyone around her. She is deeply deserving of recognition through the DAISY Award.
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Jess is everything anyone would want in a leader and more. I have been so blessed to have had her as my leader for the past 4 years. She is always a phone call away in situations we aren't so sure about, like what to do or whom to call. She works hard to make sure we are always staffed and has come in herself when there was nobody else to meet safe staffing requirements.
She always checks on our mental health after something heavy has happened. She starts her day rounding to check on us and see if we need anything for the day.
Today, for example, reminded me just how lucky we are to have her. It was early in the shift with little staffing, and we received a cardiac arrest. She heard and came straight over as a helping hand and resource. She stayed with the patient to do post-mortem care, was so thoughtful in making sure everything was perfect for the family, and coordinated with investigators. She also answered phone calls and cleaned rooms while everyone else was busy.
She is a leader who leads by example, and I'm so glad I get to learn from her.
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Jessica is also a DAISY Award Honoree!
Thank you, Jessica, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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