Laura Strietelmeier exemplifies the very best of nurse leadership through her courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to both her teams and the patients they serve. She recently stepped forward to chair the Nurse Leader Council, creating an environment rooted in trust, transparency, and psychological safety. Under her leadership, voices are heard, concerns are addressed openly, and collaboration is not just encouraged, it is expected.

Laura demonstrated exceptional advocacy by authoring a thoughtful and courageous letter on behalf of the Nurse Leader Council to the Ambulatory Chief Nursing Officer, clearly expressing collective concerns regarding nurse compensation and retention. In doing so, she advocated not only for her fellow nurse leaders but also for the long-term safety and stability of patient care. This action required bravery, professionalism, and a deep sense of responsibility to the nursing profession.

She leads with accessibility and authenticity, always open to communication and consistently present for her team. Laura regularly goes above and beyond her role, preparing extensively for council meetings on her days off to ensure the council’s work is meaningful and effective. Despite her leadership responsibilities, she remains deeply connected to frontline realities, frequently assisting with triage messages and supporting staff with day-to-day operational needs while managing her broader leadership duties.

Laura Strietelmeier leads by example. She balances advocacy with action, strategy with compassion, and leadership with service. Her dedication, selflessness, and steadfast support of nurses and patients alike make her an outstanding and deserving nominee for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award.