Shannon Hardin
July 2025
Shannon
Hardin
,
MHA, MSN, RN
GEC
Lexington VA Health Care System
Lexington
,
KY
United States
As a strong advocate for Veteran care and staff wellbeing, Shannon has led the implementation of robust patient safety protocols and helped build a culture where safety and quality are non-negotiable.
Integrity
Shannon Hardin exemplifies integrity in every facet of her work. Throughout her VA career, she has consistently upheld the highest ethical standards, from her beginnings in the Community Living Center to her current role as Acting Chief of Geriatric and Extended Care. Her transparent leadership style, accountability, and unwavering focus on patient-centered care have built trust among colleagues, staff, and Veterans alike.
Commitment
Shannon’s commitment to the mission of the VA is evident in her tireless work ethic and her continuous drive to improve patient care. She has taken on numerous leadership roles—ICU Nurse, Nurse Manager of 2 South PCU, Patient Safety Manager, Primary Care Nurse Manager, and now Acting Chief of GEC—each time raising the bar for what dedicated nursing leadership looks like. Even during staffing shortages, Shannon steps in to work on the unit, putting Veterans’ needs first.
Advocacy
As a strong advocate for Veteran care and staff wellbeing, Shannon has led the implementation of robust patient safety protocols and helped build a culture where safety and quality are non-negotiable. Her leadership directly contributed to a Five Star SAIL rating across two successful surveys, highlighting her relentless pursuit of better outcomes for Veterans.
Respect
Shannon fosters a culture of mutual respect within her teams. She leads by example, valuing the input of her staff and encouraging collaboration across all levels. Her approachable nature and willingness to listen have made her a respected and trusted leader across multiple service lines, including Ambulatory Care and Geriatrics.
Excellence
Excellence defines Shannon’s career. Her strategic oversight in opening the 2 South PCU, leading infrastructure improvements, and managing three new care unit constructions all showcase her exceptional project management and clinical leadership. Her ability to deliver high-quality outcomes in complex environments is truly remarkable.
In summary, Shannon Hardin lives the ICARE values every day. Her career is a powerful testament to excellence in VA nursing leadership, and it is with deep respect and admiration that I nominate her for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. It is an honor to work alongside her.
Shannon Hardin exemplifies integrity in every facet of her work. Throughout her VA career, she has consistently upheld the highest ethical standards, from her beginnings in the Community Living Center to her current role as Acting Chief of Geriatric and Extended Care. Her transparent leadership style, accountability, and unwavering focus on patient-centered care have built trust among colleagues, staff, and Veterans alike.
Commitment
Shannon’s commitment to the mission of the VA is evident in her tireless work ethic and her continuous drive to improve patient care. She has taken on numerous leadership roles—ICU Nurse, Nurse Manager of 2 South PCU, Patient Safety Manager, Primary Care Nurse Manager, and now Acting Chief of GEC—each time raising the bar for what dedicated nursing leadership looks like. Even during staffing shortages, Shannon steps in to work on the unit, putting Veterans’ needs first.
Advocacy
As a strong advocate for Veteran care and staff wellbeing, Shannon has led the implementation of robust patient safety protocols and helped build a culture where safety and quality are non-negotiable. Her leadership directly contributed to a Five Star SAIL rating across two successful surveys, highlighting her relentless pursuit of better outcomes for Veterans.
Respect
Shannon fosters a culture of mutual respect within her teams. She leads by example, valuing the input of her staff and encouraging collaboration across all levels. Her approachable nature and willingness to listen have made her a respected and trusted leader across multiple service lines, including Ambulatory Care and Geriatrics.
Excellence
Excellence defines Shannon’s career. Her strategic oversight in opening the 2 South PCU, leading infrastructure improvements, and managing three new care unit constructions all showcase her exceptional project management and clinical leadership. Her ability to deliver high-quality outcomes in complex environments is truly remarkable.
In summary, Shannon Hardin lives the ICARE values every day. Her career is a powerful testament to excellence in VA nursing leadership, and it is with deep respect and admiration that I nominate her for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. It is an honor to work alongside her.