William embodies what many nurses look for in a Nurse Leader. He proactively listens and is present for his nurses in his department and even those not in his department. He really gives his complete attention, whether that is someone sharing good or bad news, provide possible ways to improve patient care, or simply by just listening to someone who does not have an agenda. I have gone through many leaders and I have found very few that provide leadership that not only leads by example but is also fair and just.

I think when someone starts losing their insight that each of us just wants to be heard, to be respected, and to be treated fairly, then you lose your capacity to really lead and you also lose the trust of your staff which can contribute to staff calling in sick, staff wit low morale, and staff transferring to other departments or simply leaving the company. William has been with NSA for many years because he has been where we all have been, a staff member. He has walked our walk. He is someone you want to do your best for, to do good for, and have pride in your position.
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William was the Director for Surgical Specialties for NSA prior to me coming into the role in June of 2021. Many would be concerned that they were replacing a director who was stepping into a manager role. I'm not going to lie, it did concern me. The minute I met William, all concerns went away. William took me under his wing to share the many years of experience he had as a leader in NSA and as a nurse. When touring me around the facilities, he was always greeted with hearty hellos, handshakes, backslaps. He had a kind word not only to but also about everyone we encountered.

He is a respected leader, ethical and honest. He rarely has an unkind word about another and works tirelessly to find the good in all people and situations. Even 6+ months into this new role, I still consider him a mentor and now a friend. William can go in to any lion's den and be greeted with respect and kindness, and in turn respect all, and offer a kind word to anyone. He is the model of what a leader should be. He works long days, early mornings, and weekends to make sure that his team is supported and that the members get what they need.

His day starts at 0600 with sick calls, and many days he is unable to leave the house for work until after 0800. Once in the facility, he quickly rounds, puts out fires, arranges last-minute staffing, and offers office time for therapy after a rough day and the occasional COVID swab. He is honest, trustworthy, and always seeks to do the right thing, no matter how difficult the challenge. He sees everyone as a human being and treats all with respect. William gives 100% to KP and his team every day. The man feels guilty for taking time off!

He is a partner, a listener, a co-conspirator, a teacher, a learner, and most importantly, a model leader. KP is so lucky to have him. I am lucky to have him as a mentor. William leads by example. He rounds many times daily. He has an open-door policy. There is no job too small or too big, and even if he isn't the owner of a problem, he is always willing to step in to help. He is a man of faith and relies on his faith and his relationships with others as the reason to keep moving forward.

The patient is always at the center of all care decisions. His teams are his priority, and he will do what it takes to make things right. I have been witness to his calm demeanor, even during the roughest storm. William is a staunch supporter of the nursing profession. He has volunteered to facilitate and lead many nursing groups and has been a part of the TPMG CNA group, NQF, Wound Care Summit, and many more. I cannot begin to explain how I feel about William as a nurse, a leader, a mentor, and a friend. Anyone who knows him understands what he has given to not only our KP members, moving DRS photos to all, but to staff and providers. He is respected by many for his transparency, integrity, humor, and comforting presence. William is fair and trustworthy and always puts others first.