The nursing staff of both the Neurocritical Care Unit and the Shock Trauma ICU would like to recognize our incredible director, Maryann Brookes. 

Starting out as a staff nurse here in our unit, Maryann worked her way to a leadership position, which allowed her to gain an invaluable perspective, as she wholeheartedly understands the challenges that her nurses face on both day and night shifts. Although her two units are on opposite ends of the hospital, Maryann makes it a point to greet her nurses every morning, ask the night crew how their shift went and wish them a safe trip home; then she will attend huddle on at least one of the units.

She truly is attentive to each nurse and shows a genuine interest in our lives outside of work, whether it is congratulating someone on a new achievement or asking about how our vacation went. Maryann has created a work environment where we as staff feel heard, valued, and respected. When asking staff about why they believe Maryann deserves to be recognized with a DAISY Nurse Leader Award, a majority of the nurses gave the same answer: Maryann consistently advocates for her staff. She makes sure we have the staff, resources, guidance, and backup needed in order to provide the highest level of care for our patients.

This impactful leadership has led to each unit having exceptional staff retention rates, with some of the more senior nurses choosing to delay their retirement in favor of working with Maryann for a few more years.

Furthermore, Maryann’s positivity, hard work, and dedication is something we strive to emulate as staff. Just as she is supportive of her nurses, we always aim to follow her lead, whether it is by supporting each other throughout our shifts, mentoring new nurses, or making sure a nurse who was floated to our unit feels welcomed. This is a true testament to the culture Maryann has built. Her extraordinary leadership has made an immeasurable difference in the lives of her staff, which reflects on the patients they serve.