Amara Ellis
November 2024
Amara
Ellis
,
BSN, RN
Center for Nursing Excellence
MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Washington
,
DC
United States

 

 

 

She leads with heart, modeling what it means to care deeply for others while inspiring them to reach their highest potential. Her mentorship has shaped my growth and the success of so many others.
Amara has been an influential and inspiring leader who embodies compassion, integrity, and service to others in every interaction. From my earliest days at Georgetown as a Summer Nurse Tech to nearly two years into my nursing career, Amara has consistently made me feel supported, empowered, and valued. Her smiling face, open-door policy, and genuine kindness reflect the true meaning of the Georgetown nursing “family.” She leads with warmth, empathy, and purpose - qualities that make those around her want to grow and give their best.

As Interim Director of Nurse Recruitment and Retention, Amara demonstrated exceptional leadership during a period of tremendous transition. She successfully mentored new team members, led the department to record-breaking hiring achievements (288 hires and 213 transfers in FY24, and 140 hires by September 2024), and created an environment defined by collaboration, respect, and trust. She is the kind of leader who never hesitates to jump in - whether it’s helping with an overflow of new grad candidates, supporting a colleague through a challenge, or texting a new hire who’s struggling with housing or relocation.

Amara’s work ethic and dedication are unmatched. She arrives early, stays late, and is always quick to “close the loop” with thoughtful, thorough communication. She advocates for her team, recognizes their strengths, and celebrates their successes through creative initiatives like the “NRNR Gem/Gemerit Program,” fostering unity and morale within the department.

Amara’s leadership goes beyond tasks - it transforms people. She leads with heart, modeling what it means to care deeply for others while inspiring them to reach their highest potential. Her mentorship has shaped my growth and the success of so many others. She is a shining example of the extraordinary compassion and excellence that define the DAISY Nurse Leader Award.

***

Amara has been such an influential part of the beginning of my nursing career. From the time that I began my work at Georgetown as a Summer nurse tech, until now, almost two years into my nursing career, Amara has gone above and beyond to make sure I have felt supported and empowered in my career.

Her smiling face and always-open doors have made me feel welcome since day one. We often talk about how Georgetown is a “family,” and Amara exemplifies these ideals perfectly. I am beyond proud to work with leaders as wonderful as Amara, and I hope to one day be the mentor she has been to me.