We're excited to announce our latest Daisy Award Winner, Shakenya Blanks from NMC's Rehabilitation Pavilion! Here are her nominations...
- Kenya is the definition of compassionate leadership, especially in the rehab setting where healing is not just physical—it’s emotional, spiritual, and mental too. As a woman in leadership, she carries so much on her shoulders, yet she shows up with excellence, empathy, and grace every single shift. What sets her apart is how deeply she connects with both patients and staff. She doesn’t just manage a team—she builds us up. Whether it’s encouraging a CNA after a hard assignment, advocating for fair treatment of a patient who doesn’t have a voice, or simply checking in on how we’re holding up—she always leads with love. You can feel that her leadership comes from a place of purpose. In rehab, where we watch patients fight to walk again, eat again, or find joy after trauma, her presence is like medicine. She takes the time to celebrate every small win and remind us all why we chose this profession. She holds space for our frustrations, honors our culture, and reminds us that compassion is our superpower. Kenya is more than a team leader—she’s a role model, a mentor, and a heartbeat in our unit. She inspires me as a young nurse to lead with authenticity and never forget that kindness is strength. She’s already our DAISY, now it’s time she gets the award to prove it.
- As an experienced nurse, I’ve worked under many leaders throughout my career, but few have left a lasting impression like Shakenya Blanks. She doesn’t just have the ability to delegate or stay organized, she respected my experience while offering genuine support. Rather than micromanaging, she collaborated with me, stepping in when needed without ever making me feel overlooked or incapable. In that moment, she reminded me of what strong leadership truly looks like—someone who uplifts others, fosters teamwork, and leads by example.
- I just want to say thank you for your unwavering dedication, guidance and compassion. Your leadership not only inspires excellence in patient care, but also uplifts and empowers every member of the team. You lead by example with strength, grace and a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Your tireless efforts do not go unnoticed and we are incredibly grateful for the heart and wisdom you bring to nursing every day.
The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is an international program that honors the compassionate care and clinical excellence nurses bring to their patients every day. The program is now in 4,300 health care facilities across 26 countries. Nominate your favorite DCH nurse today! Click here for the nomination form.
