My experience with Alan began 8 years ago. As a new nurse at Ascension, my decision to find the right place for me involved Alan as a preceptor on the oncology floor. My experience went far above any expectation. His kindness, knowledge, and humor made my transition from a pediatric world to adults a little easier. However, what stood out the most with Alan was talking to me, not at me, and making me feel as though my input was as valuable as a seasoned oncology nurse. Due to unforeseen circumstances in my personal life, I was transferred to Rutherford. My time at Rutherford was good, but it was not Midtown.

After a little over a year, I wanted to come back to my first home. I was beyond thrilled to hear Alan had taken a managerial position, which was so well deserved as he displayed the same attributes as a manager that he did as my preceptor. The kindness, the listening, the advocating for the nurses, and the sincere care he would show brought me back to Midtown. Leadership is much more than directing a path or ensuring policy is followed. Alan's leadership skills exemplify the definition of a great manager, not just a good one. I always felt comfortable, regardless of my concern, and knew I could take it to Alan with all the confidence that something would be done, or he would give me the tools to help myself. When it came to my family and some traumatic events, he did everything to ensure me that he would take care of anything needed at work.

I never worried as long as I was working under Alan. He was always fair and never showed partiality amongst those he managed. Alan worked hard to include all those he managed. When hosting his infamous pancake breakfasts, he would show up extra early to include the night shift staff and let them know they were important. If you spoke to any of the night shift, it was always how thankful they were to have Alan as their manager because he went out of his way to include everyone.

There is so much more to say about someone who has had a great impact on my nursing at St. Thomas, but he had more impact on me as a human being. I could use a lot of fancy words to describe the person, nurse, and manager he is, but there is one that encompasses them all, and that is friend. My appreciation for Alan and all he has done and will continue to do for Ascension and me will continue on through the lives he has touched well beyond the hospital doors or nursing careers. Alan is deserving of this prestigious award and recognition of his outstanding leadership skills with such a diverse group of people. Thank you, Alan, for allowing me to grow and encouraging me to go beyond my comfort.
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Over the past decade, as I have grown in my nursing journey, I have been blessed to learn from some of the greatest minds and warmest hearts. The light they've shared with me has helped me to guide others to also shine. One of those exceptional leaders who has always stood out for going above and beyond for his team is Alan Wood. His leadership career has spanned multiple units throughout this hospital and has had a profound impact on fostering the culture that makes Midtown so special. He leads by example, showing that leadership is not just about achieving goals, but about building a supportive and compassionate community.

Most recently, he has moved from management in Oncology to a completely different arena in our Joint Replacement and Spine Institutes. This transition has proven that great leaders are defined not only by their experience but by their ability to adapt, grow, and inspire others to do the same. His courage, resilience, and focus on team development make him more than deserving of this recognition.
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I am nominating Alan Wood for recognition. Although he recently transitioned from managing the Oncology unit to overseeing 8E/8K, he was my manager for several years and left a lasting impact. I’ve worked at Midtown for over 17 years and have had the privilege of working with many good managers, but Alan stands out as one of the very best. He consistently arrives early, often between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m., and never hesitates to get his hands dirty. Alan goes above and beyond for his team and others, always leading by example.

On days when ice and snow made travel dangerous, Alan would risk his own safety to pick up staff so patient care could continue uninterrupted. He also has a personal touch—he loves to bake and would occasionally bring in homemade snacks for the team, adding warmth to our work environment. I could say so much more, but anyone who knows Alan understands the dedication, compassion, and integrity he brings to his role. Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown is truly fortunate to have him as a leader.
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Alan has been a welcome addition to our 8 East Joint Replacement Team! Alan is always available for any floor needs for our staff and is always open to assist in problem-solving. Alan is always present on the floor with a smile on his face, eager to assist staff, and has been involved in our daily multi-disciplinary rounds every day since taking on this new position on 8 East. We have noticed a significant improvement in staff morale and feel confident in going to Alan with any questions or concerns that arise.