The DAISY Leader award honors nurse leaders who create an environment where compassionate care, focusing on both our patients and team, is prioritized. I am honored to nominate Sandra Dean for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award in recognition of her leadership, compassion, and commitment to excellence in nursing. 

Sandy, who has been with JFK since Sept 2002, has led in a CNC role on 4C. Sandy has demonstrated unwavering support of her unit, most recently assuming an interim manager role. While I am told bits and pieces of Sandy’s history here, the thing that stands out is the many people who share how she has oriented, mentored, and supported them during their time here at JFK. 

What I have witnessed firsthand is a leader who leads by example, consistently demonstrating empathy, humility, and tireless dedication every day. Whether mentoring our nurses, advocating for patient-centered care, or supporting our initiatives to improve workflow and morale, Sandy is always present, approachable, and committed. 

Sandy truly exemplifies what it means to be a DAISY Nurse Leader- an individual who makes a profound difference through caring, integrity, and a heart for service.