It is my honor to nominate Tamara Jackson for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award in Forensic Leadership. I have had the privilege of working with Tamara for 3 years and have witnessed firsthand her unwavering dedication, clinical expertise and visionary leadership in advancing forensic nursing practice. She has 20 years of experience, working from SANE Coordinator to now System SANE Manager for Sinai Chicago Healthcare System. Tamara established our SANE treatment program, which required the development of operations, education, and recruitment of the entire SANE workforce of 23 SANE nurses. She secured the program’s alignment with state regulatory requirements and evidence-based practice. She has worked tirelessly on the growth of the program, resulting in transfer agreements with five other safety-net community hospitals in under 2 years.

As a nurse mentor, Tamara has provided comprehensive training and continuing education to all 23 SANE nurses. Moreover, she has provided education to all emergency department nurses, inpatient nurses, rehabilitation nurses, house administrators, and advocates for trauma-informed care practices. She has contributed significantly to policy development, which has led to meaningful changes that have enhanced both clinical outcomes and professional standards. She is an integral role model to the SANE nurses, as she is constantly engaged with every patient, 1:1 case reviews, follow-up with survivors, and provision of vital mental and emotional support for the SANE nurses. I have witnessed firsthand how she goes above and beyond for the survivors to ensure they have a safe environment, optimal follow-up care, and mental health support after their emergency department visit. She has an outstanding collaborative relationship with multiple disciplines to ensure the survivors receive all the appropriate resources during their care. Tamara has also been actively participating in community education, and has partnered with the Domestic Violence Committee for the Chicago Police Department 8th District, and provided education to its members regarding the SANE Treatment Program and survivor rights.

Tamara exemplifies the highest standards of nursing professionalism and integrity. She is a respected leader in the state of Illinois and is active in the legislative and administrative committees. Tamara has been a renowned speaker in multiple SANE conferences, at the city, state, regional, and national levels, advocating for evidence-based forensic nursing care. In October of 2024, Tamara published her first book, “Domestic to Interpersonal Violence: An Interdisciplinary Approach", which provides an overview of interpersonal violence, identifies groups who may be at a higher risk, presents data for diagnoses and considerations for marginalized populations. Most recently, she has raised awareness in the entire institution regarding Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). She spearheaded the “Start By Believing” Campaign in our health system, advocated and continues to advocate for multiple community awareness programs such as “Standing Silent Witness”, “She Rises”, and “Outspoken”. These programs support women’s mental health and awareness around sexual violence. She bridges a critical gap between healthcare and law enforcement, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive both justice and healing.

I wholeheartedly endorse Tamara for this award, knowing that she will undoubtedly continue to elevate the profession and serve as an inspiring role model for others.