I would like to nominate Professor Ellen Lake for the DAISY Award as a Nurse Educator. When I began as an adjunct instructor at the school, Ellen was such a knowledgeable, caring, compassionate, and dedicated mentor. She served as my role model, and we made an instant connection, providing a safe, supportive environment for our students to learn. I began lecturing in her Nursing 119 course after my first semester of working with her in the nursing skills lab at the school.

Ellen was instrumental in educating me on what I needed to know. I have had many years of teaching experience, but I have never worked within the HMH system. I wanted to learn the HMH/JFK ways. Ellen was patient and kind and allowed me to use my experience to educate our students. Her role as my lead teacher has been wonderful. Ellen has always answered all my questions and made me feel like an important part of her team, even though I am an adjunct instructor. I have always felt welcome, and I feel like my opinions and comments are always well respected by her. The students love Professor Lake. She demonstrates enthusiasm for teaching that inspires and motivates the students. She lectures on her information in a relaxed atmosphere. She is extremely knowledgeable about her content, flexible with the schedule, and she adapts to changes with ease. She shows confidence in front of the students while she is fair and unbiased. Ellen establishes clear learning outcomes while providing constructive feedback. I have learned so much from Ellen. She has guided me to learn the HMH/JFK policies and procedures. She has never made me feel hesitant to ask questions. Her responses are always professional and well-received by our students.

Ellen often plans ahead for the upcoming semesters. She teaches in two courses. These two courses, Principles and Foundations of Nursing Fundamentals, guide our students through the educational process. The basics are often the most important topics that students and new nurses can carry into their future careers. I have established a wonderful working relationship with Ellen Lake. Together with the other members of our Nursing 101/102 team, we have created a collaborative working relationship. This is my 41st year in nursing, and I am very happy to be part of such a wonderful team of dedicated educators. I highly recommend Professor Ellen Lake for the Nurse Educator DAISY Award. I am confident that she is the nursing instructor who demonstrates enthusiasm for teaching, learning, and nursing.

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Professor Ellen Lake is a truly exceptional nurse educator whose compassion, support, and intuition have profoundly impacted my journey toward becoming a registered nurse. Her ability to connect with students on a personal level, coupled with her deep understanding of the nursing profession, has shaped my perspective on what it truly means to be a nurse. Her encouragement has helped me navigate my challenges with confidence, while her thoughtful guidance has inspired me to continually strive for excellence. Beyond the classroom, she has demonstrated what it means to be a compassionate caregiver, not only to patients but also to her students, nurturing our growth both as individuals and as future healthcare professionals. Her influence has been pivotal in molding my understanding of the core values of nursing, and I am forever grateful for the positive impact she has had on my life and career.