Martha exemplifies the qualities of an extraordinary role model and leader in nursing. During my tenure as Director of the Resuscitation Training Center (RTC), I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Martha’s remarkable dedication to her organization, community, and profession. She consistently demonstrates the highest standards of trust, compassion, mutual respect, professional development, and ethical behavior, motivating those around her to achieve better outcomes for themselves and their patients. Martha is the embodiment of a nurse leader who creates an environment that fosters growth and excellence. As a nurse educator at UMMC, she goes far beyond her formal duties, not only educating coworkers on her floor but also serving as an invaluable resource to her manager and the code blue committee. Her expertise and initiative have led to the successful development of hospital-wide training modules and Epic’s code narrator function, ensuring compliance with The Joint Commission standards. She has taken a leading role in the implementation of these innovations, setting a standard for excellence. Her contributions to RTC have been extraordinary. During the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the center faced significant transitions in personnel, curriculum, and operations, Martha emerged as a critical leader and instructor. She helped to maintain the continuity of critical training programs by leading courses for employees and learners from many departments. Notably, she plays an integral role in the yearly ACLS and BLS blitzes for M1 and M3 medical students where we deliver over 500 certifications courses in intensive, multi-day sessions.

Martha’s leadership extends into the community, where her volunteerism reflects her unwavering commitment to improving the health and safety of others. She supports AHA’s Heart Walk, instructed BLS and first aid training for faculty and staff in the South Delta School District, assists her church community, and is often the first to volunteer for CPR events in the community. These efforts underscore her dedication to enhancing the image of nursing both within the organization and throughout the broader community.

In addition to her educator role, Martha often assumes managerial responsibilities during periods of transition on her unit. She seamlessly steps into tasks such as scheduling, managing coverage and leave requests, conducting new employee interviews, and making hiring recommendations. Her willingness to take on these additional responsibilities highlights her exceptional leadership and ability to inspire trust and respect among her colleagues. Martha’s enthusiasm, vision, and unwavering dedication make her an outstanding role model and advocate for nursing. Through her continued efforts, she has not only strengthened her organization but also elevated the profession within the community and beyond. It is with great pride and gratitude that I nominate Anna Martha Holmes for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award, a recognition she so richly deserves.