Barb is an amazing leader, she is such a great mentor to me which makes me a much better leader. There is no situation or problem that I cannot bring to her and we find the solution. Barb has extremely high standards and expectations for the Periop departments and leaders but leads us in a way that does not put added pressure on the leaders she manages. Barb's managers want to work hard for her, as she works hard for us. Barb's integrity is second to none and there is no one else I would want to be my leader.

The most impressive thing to me that Barb has accomplished is the relationships between all the Periop departments. I have never seen such a great relationship between Sterile Processing (my department) and the Operating Room. Typically, there is no relationship between these two departments, usually these departments do not get along with each other and create tension that can affect patient care. This starts with Barb's leadership style and making sure all the Periop managers are on the same team and work together for the same goal (patient safety). Barb not only stays in fine tune with her managers, but she also goes above and beyond to meet and talk with all the staff members of the Sterile Processing team. I have team members that have told me they have never seen upper leadership meet with them or even talk with them. This makes my team feel appreciated and reinstates their purpose in patient care. This is not what she has to do, but rather this is her natural leading style.

Barb understands it takes everyone to accomplish our goals every day, and this is communicated and reassured to all the staff. Words alone cannot paint the complete picture of what Barb has accomplished through her great leadership. Anyone who has worked with Barb understands the impact she has had here at Soin. Soin is a much better place because of Barb. She has touched so many people directly, and indirectly. Our patients are lucky to have her lead our Periop service.

When I think of Barb Robinson, I am reminded of John Maxwell's quote, "leaders become great, not because of their power, but because of their ability to empower others." I have worked with Barb in the Kettering Health Network for almost 5 years, but I have known and respected her as a leader for almost 20 years. As a leader, we all have doubts in our abilities at times. Barb's ability to help you work through your insecurities and grow as a leader is truly one of her best attributes.

However, there are many more positives to share. She is smart, witty, and has a genuine laugh that she loves to share with others. She has an incredible vision for moving her teams forward but also allows us to offer input and our vision as well. I have accomplished many personal goals with Barb's inspiration, enthusiasm, and gentle nudges. She is respectful and gracious when delivering difficult messages, something I find as a leader to be the most difficult task. Barb visits each new member of the Periop team at their 60-day mark. She sees in the impact of a leader, even a director, getting to know the staff she serves. She makes time in her busy day to interact with the teams and I personally believe all of this helps with our very low separation rate. I see Barb as an amazing transformational leader. She focuses on the future and change but understands that the connections she makes with the people we serve are the way that is accomplished. She helps me to grow as a leader by focusing on my strengths and abilities and encourages me to grow the future leaders of my area. I can say I have NEVER worked with a more passionate, compassionate, and respected professional.