The DAISY Foundation specifically developed the DAISY Nurse Educator Award to honor the extraordinary work our nurse educators do in improving practice and advancing patient care through teaching, precepting, and mentoring. NEA has been blessed with a gifted and committed group of nurse educators who work diligently to ensure that our staff is prepared to provide the best care possible to our patients.

While each of these individuals deserves accolades in their own right, I think that they would all agree that Taylor Meador should be our very first honoree. Taylor is a beacon of inspiration and a true champion of nursing education. For nine years, Taylor has been a driving force behind the evolution of our educational programs, tirelessly striving to enhance the learning experience for our nurses. Her intelligence, dedication, and approachability have not only endeared her to her colleagues and staff but have also made her an invaluable resource within our institution.

Taylor’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of nurses through her work with clinical nurse residents cannot be overstated. Her guidance and support during their challenging first year of nursing have made an indelible impact on countless, shaping the future of our profession. Taylor’s impact extends far beyond the walls of our institution. Her work with our clinical affiliates has forged strong bonds with nursing programs in the region, creating opportunities for collaboration. Moreover, her direct engagement with nursing students and faculty has been instrumental in showcasing the supportive environment we work so hard to cultivate, allowing us to attract new talent to our ranks.

As a regional faculty member of the American Heart Association, her leadership, and expertise have touched the lives of countless individuals, from teachers to firefighters, empowering them with life-saving knowledge and skills that ripple throughout our community. Congratulations on receiving the DAISY Nurse Educator Award for 2024, Taylor!