Samantha Avecilla, MSN, RN, CRRN, CNL, CCM

Sam has been an amazing colleague, manager, and mentor throughout my time in Rehabilitation Services. She was involved in my interview when I was first hired, and from that very first interaction, she made me feel genuinely welcomed and supported.

Starting a new position can be intimidating, especially because I came into the role with no previous case management or rehabilitation nursing experience and truly did not know what to expect. Sam immediately helped make that transition easier.

From the beginning, Sam, along with the pre-admissions and inpatient teams, created an environment where I felt comfortable asking questions, learning, and growing into my new role as a case manager.

Sam has played an especially important part in my professional growth. Her experience and knowledge across all three areas of Rehab Case Management, combined with her previous experience as an inpatient rehabilitation nurse, give her an incredible depth of knowledge and a unique understanding of the many different aspects of our work.

Sam is someone we can consistently rely on when faced with challenging or complex situations. She frequently assists with complex cases involving both our inpatient rehabilitation patients and patients receiving care at contracted facilities. Her ability to look at a difficult situation from both a clinical and case management perspective is invaluable, and she is always willing to share her knowledge and help find a solution.

What I appreciate most about Sam is that despite her extensive knowledge and experience, she remains approachable and willing to help. I have always felt comfortable going to her with questions or asking for guidance, and I know I am not alone in feeling that way. She genuinely wants the people around her to succeed and has a way of sharing her knowledge that builds confidence rather than making someone feel inexperienced.

I am extremely grateful for everything Sam has taught me and for the support she has given me throughout my time in Rehabilitation Services. She has helped me become a more knowledgeable and confident case manager, and I feel very fortunate to have had her as both a coworker and a manager.

Sam’s dedication to her staff, her patients, and Rehabilitation Services is evident in everything she does, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of recognition for the positive impact she has on our team.

Every day I feel blessed to have Sam as my nurse manager. She builds team morale and continuously keeps positivity in our working environment. I have never felt so acknowledged and valued as a case manager as Sam makes me feel.

What I appreciate most is that she never makes me feel like I am the problem or that I have done something wrong. Instead, she treats me with respect, kindness, and understanding. Even during difficult conversations, she makes me feel supported and valued.

Her kindness is something she shows every day, not just when things are going well. She is approachable, fair, and genuinely cares about the people she works with. In a short time, she has made a positive difference in our department and has earned the trust and respect of those around her.

She reminds us that great leaders lead not only with knowledge and skill, but also with compassion and heart.