We would like to nominate Jill Dykhuis, Unit Based Educator on 4 West, for the 2024 DAISY Nurse Educator Award. This is collective information and recognition from many of Jill’s peers.

Jill has been in the unit-based educator role since before I started in the role 6 years ago. She is a strong leader and a role model for our PCU UBE group. She is very organized and has taken the lead in our Ed Consortium meeting as well as various other committees. She is always enthusiastic and eager to teach UBEs who are newer into the role, as well as any nurses or PCTs. She is patient and kind with each interaction that she has with learners. She will always search for the correct answer when a question arises. Jill is a valuable asset to her unit as well as the hospital as a whole. She is very deserving of an award for Nursing Excellence.

As a nurse educator, this individual goes beyond their duties as assigned, especially when it comes to fostering connections with her peers. Not only does this individual own and run a monthly meeting with their peers, but they also take minutes, send out updated minutes and agendas, and agree to take on discussed follow-up items, none of which are part of their normal daily requirements. This individual is selfless with their time to ensure that the peers they work with continue to be on the same page and working towards common goals rather than in silos making limited to no progress. Not only does this individual work well with peers, but they also have a great sense of integrity. I cannot think of another person who does what is right, even when no one is watching 100% of the time. This individual takes pride in doing what is right to keep their staff, students, and patients safe. There is no amount of stress that would push this individual to create a workaround or to teach or complete a task that would potentially deviate from policy and cause harm. I would trust my most precious family with this person. Having this level of respect means as an educator they are trusted wholeheartedly to keep staff up to date on new processes, orient to hires, answer the 100 questions that come in daily, and overall keep their unit functioning at a high level.

The thing I find most admirable about Jill is within the effective communication and Leadership realm, although she fits into every other category and excels within those as well.

When I first started as a UBE, I remember Jill specifically reaching out to welcome me. She also made sure I was introduced to the other PCU UBEs. To me, this set the precedence of open communication but also collaboration. Within just that one interaction, I realized I wanted to aspire to someone like Jill. It was then that I realized we shared the same mental model regarding collaboration, education, and creating an environment of inclusivity. She serves as an "unofficial" ambassador for the PCUs and I am not sure that anyone else could represent us so eloquently. Her experience shows in being able to communicate with absolutely anyone, and she uses best practice techniques to ensure it is a positive experience. I am not sure she is even capable of being mad, inappropriate, or communicating poorly. I constantly question myself on why it seems so easy for her when I often struggle. I guess the point here is I am sure she struggles, but the majority of people wouldn't know because of how she carries herself and where her focus remains. Her focus is on patient safety/satisfaction, staff

Safety/satisfaction, improving processes with her uncanny knowledge, and educating staff to the highest degree and standard. She is a role model to us all and sets the bar high for staff, herself, and latter mentioned outcomes. Within her own developed standards, she inspires others to practice to the highest degree by helping individuals obtain a shared goal between all.

I am honored to nominate Jill Dykhuis for her remarkable dedication, empathy, and compassion that profoundly impacts patients, students, and colleagues alike. Her approach to nursing goes beyond delivering excellent care; she creates meaningful, lasting connections that foster trust and comfort in every interaction.

Jill consistently provides a safe and supportive clinical learning environment where students feel encouraged to grow both professionally and personally. She is patient, approachable, and always willing to share her knowledge. Her genuine investment in their development builds confidence and instills a deep respect for the art and science of nursing.

Among her colleagues, Jill is known for her unwavering support and collaboration. She fosters a culture of teamwork and inclusion, encouraging open communication and shared learning. Her empathetic leadership creates an atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual respect, which enhances the overall quality of care and learning within the unit. Often times, when checking on new staff who exhibit behavioral issues, Jill will remind us, “Sometimes it isn’t the behavior but something else going on that is causing the behavior.” She reminds us that sometimes actions are a symptom of deeper issues and aren’t always a reflection of the person’s true character.

Jill exemplifies the heart of nursing through her empathy, compassion, and commitment to creating a nurturing environment for all. She is a true role model, and I strongly believe she is deserving of this nomination. The Progressive Care Unit Based Educator group would be lost without her.

Jill continually demonstrates adaptability and innovation through her career. Jill has been a nurse since about 2007. This is her second career. Even though she has many years of experience as a nurse and as an educator, she never seems to tire of implementing new things or grow weary of change. This applies to both teaching new equipment, procedures, or policies to staff, or even how she runs the “behind the scenes” part of her job. She is always willing to try new things. Jill remembers that healthcare is forever changing and she remains flexible to change with it.

But of all the things that make Jill a great candidate for the DAISY Nurse Educator Award, I would say that her character is the top reason. Jill is just a good human being. She shows love and respect for all people. She values everyone and finds the good in all. She is quick to have compassion and empathy for people in various situations and equally values those around her. She is a good influence on us all.