Jana Chadwell serves as the nurse manager at the Community Living Center (CLC) and has dedicated 14 years to the Lexington VA, significantly impacting the lives of numerous veterans and their families. Throughout her career at the CLC, she has progressed through various roles, beginning as a staff Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and advancing to a staff Registered Nurse (RN), assistant nurse manager, and ultimately, nurse manager.

Jana has developed into a highly effective leader, demonstrating exceptional expertise in her field. She holds a master’s degree in nursing education and works diligently to ensure the smooth operation of all four units at the CLC while preparing for the opening of two new cottages. In times of challenge, Jana demonstrates unwavering integrity and serves as a source of inspiration for her staff. She is committed to empowering her team to achieve their highest potential, continuously encouraging them to pursue their professional aspirations. The trust she has fostered among her staff is indicative of her commitment to an open-door policy, which promotes an environment where team members feel comfortable seeking her guidance and assistance.

Jana has restructured staff meetings to serve not only as a platform for disseminating important information but also as occasions to acknowledge staff accomplishments and celebrate significant moments. By inviting the Chaplain to initiate each weekly meeting with words of encouragement, she has cultivated a culture of motivation that has notably enhanced morale and improved the workplace environment at the CLC.

When her team requires support, Jana responds promptly and effectively. She ardently advocates for veteran-centered care while remaining deeply invested in the well-being of both the veterans and their families. Her guiding principle— “I just want to do what is best for my staff and the veterans”—illustrates her steadfast commitment to the mission of the CLC.

Additionally, Jana routinely engages with her staff throughout the day, ensuring that communication remains clear and that relevant information is shared. Jana’s respect for her team members is evident in her willingness to engage in hands-on support whenever necessary. She collaborates with her staff during difficult situations, exemplifying the qualities of an exemplary leader.

When facing challenges, Jana’s problem-solving skills are noteworthy, earning her respect across various disciplines within the hospital. A particularly outstanding demonstration of Jana’s leadership occurred when she took extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of a veteran with dementia. She worked alongside emergency services, law enforcement, leadership, and social workers for over an hour to secure the safe return of a veteran who had eloped. When the veteran expressed reluctance to board the ambulance, it was Jana who uniquely earned his trust and successfully persuaded him to transfer to the Bowling campus, prioritizing his safety and well-being. She accompanied him during transportation from Sousley to the bowling venue, further exemplifying her dedication and compassion. She used distraction techniques and other ways to prevent agitation throughout the trip.

Jana's leadership extends far beyond her formal responsibilities, positively influencing the lives of those she serves. The CLC is privileged to have such a dedicated leader, and she is unquestionably deserving of the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. Her impact will continue to resonate within the organization for years to come. The last two years have brought tremendous change to the CLC. From a transition in leadership to learning her new role as Nurse Manager, to opening two new cottages while simultaneously planning for three more, Jana has consistently demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience in leadership.

Despite the many challenges and stresses that come with growth and change, under her guidance, the CLC maintained a 5-star SAIL rating, an outstanding achievement that speaks volumes about her dedication and effectiveness. Jana also played a critical role in ensuring the success of the Ascellon survey, achieving two consecutive years with minimal findings. Her ability to anticipate needs, stay proactive, and instill accountability in her team has been a cornerstone of this success. Her leadership can be summed up in three words: preparation, support, and passion.

When tasks seemed overwhelming, Jana's vision and organization turned challenges into manageable steps. She invested countless hours into preparing for the move and the successful openings of the cottages, and she works tirelessly to keep staff survey-ready year-round. Beyond preparation, Jana provided essential emotional support for her team. She motivated and encouraged staff throughout the transition of our Veterans to the cottages, keeping everyone focused, steady, and united in purpose.

Above all, her leadership is fueled by an unwavering passion for excellence in serving those "who shall have borne the battle," as well as their families, caregivers, and survivors. Her passion energizes the team and inspires each of us to strive for excellence in every aspect of our mission. I am deeply proud of the leadership Jana has displayed this past year. When staffing is short, she will jump in and help anyway she can.

During the winter, there was a snowstorm, and there were several call-ins. She had gotten a hotel close to the hospital so she would ensure she would get to work. She came on in and worked the night shift once notified of the call-ins. Also, she had paid for the room and wasn’t able to get a refund for the stay.

Recently, we had a dementia Veteran who didn’t want to stay in the unit. She got on the elevator and left, and went outside. She followed him and helped calm him. She rode in the ambulance with him, calming him the entire ride, so he could be evaluated in the ED and later admitted to the locked unit at the Bowling campus. All the while, his safety was her only concern that day. She is not only an outstanding leader but also an inspiration and role model for all of us.