Current job: Chief Nurse Executive, WellStar Health System
Family: “I have been married for 29 years to Gary Wesley, who is a pharmacist. We have two sons: Steve is 28, a graduate of Michigan State University and is in advertising in Denver; Mark is 23 and is graduating in May from the University of Detroit Mercy with his bachelor’s degree in nursing.”
What makes a good leader?
“A good leader can articulate a compelling vision, inspires hope, listens to what matters to the people they lead, and empowers others to do what they do best every day.”
What are you most proud of in your career?
“Being able to make a positive difference in the lives of nurses at the bedside, and therefore make a difference in the lives of the patients and families they care for.”
Who has inspired or mentored you?
“I have had many wonderful mentors in my career. My first nurse manager taught me to always put the patient first. My first chief nurse inspired me to continue my nursing education. The nurses at the bedside and the patients inspire me every day.”
What’s your favorite thing to do away from work?
“I love to read and take long walks.”
Who’s your favorite fictional nurse? Why?
“None of the fictional nurses can hold a candle to the real nurses.”
What’s your favorite guilty pleasure?
“The spa.”
Tell us something that nobody at work knows about you:
“I played basketball in college.”
