DAISY Nurse Leader Award recipient recognized for people-centered leadership, team culture

On the Progressive Care Unit, leadership looks less like a title and more like a daily presence — checking in on patients, encouraging staff, and building a culture where compassion and accountability thrive.

Shonda Gray, RN, Manager of the Progressive Care Unit and Medical Telemetry, is being recognized with Reid Health’s DAISY Nurse Leader Award for building a culture where patients feel cared for and team members feel valued.

Through her consistent, hands-on leadership, Gray has created an environment where nurses feel confident, empowered, and proud of the care they provide.

In one nomination, a patient shared how small, meaningful interactions made repeated hospital stays feel more personal and familiar.

“It feels like family when you’re on the fourth floor as a nurse,” the patient wrote.

“Shonda, the floor manager, goes above and beyond by asking patients how they’re doing — what needs changed to improve and things like that. She has taken out my finished meal tray when she stopped in just to see how I’m doing. She’s doing an outstanding job as manager. She doesn’t ask anyone to do what she wouldn’t do.”

Vince Kennedy, Director of Inpatient Nursing, submitted a second nomination and has seen Gray’s leadership firsthand.

“She’s truly invested in her team, her patients, and the physicians who collaborate on 4 East,” Kennedy said. “Her passion for leadership and the organization’s mission and values sets her apart.”

He also highlighted her broader impact.

“Her servant heart and transformational leadership style demonstrate she isn’t afraid to step onto the floor alongside her team,” Kennedy said. “At the same time, the engagement of her staff reflects her ability to transform culture and ensure the highest level of care for every patient.”

Gray joined Reid Health in May 2012 and has worked in both the Adult Psychiatric Unit and the Progressive Care Unit.

She said the recognition carries both personal and professional meaning.

“Personally, it’s an honor that reflects the passion I have for supporting my team,” Gray said. “Professionally, it validates the culture we’re building and motivates me to continue leading with purpose, accountability, and compassion.”

“I felt extremely honored and honestly a little overwhelmed.

“This award means so much because it represents the impact we’re making as a team. I take a lot of pride in supporting my staff and creating an environment where they can succeed, so to be recognized for that is very meaningful. It made me reflect on how far we’ve come and reinforced why I do what I do every day.”

Her approach to leadership is intentional and consistent. She leads by being present, transparent, and accountable, and believes culture is built through daily actions rather than words.

“It’s not about recognition; it’s about impact,” she said.

“Going above and beyond happens in the everyday moments — the extra conversation with a patient, supporting a teammate who’s struggling, or stepping in without being asked.”

For Gray, success is measured by the growth and confidence she helps build within her team. She leads intentionally, showing up for staff, supporting them through challenges, and helping them develop in their roles. She believes a strong team naturally leads to better patient care.

“I feel like I’m making my mark by investing in people,” she said. “If my team is stronger, more confident, and more connected because of the environment we’ve built together, then I know I’m making a difference — not just for them, but for every patient we care for.”

Gray believes that connection to her team is at the center of everything she does.

“This nomination came from one of my own team members, and that means everything,” she said.

“It tells me the way I show up for my team — supporting them, holding them accountable, and advocating for them — is truly making a difference. It’s humbling and emotional because my team is why I do what I do.”

She believes strong leadership directly shapes patient experience.

“When leaders stay connected, supportive, and accountable, it directly impacts how staff care for patients,” Gray said. “A strong, supported team delivers a stronger patient experience every time.”

Gray was presented with the DAISY Nurse Leader Award certificate and pin during a celebration attended by Reid leadership, colleagues, unit staff, and family members. She also received a hand-carved sculpture known as “The Healer’s Touch,” symbolizing the meaningful difference nurses make in the lives of others.

The DAISY Nurse Leader Award recognizes leaders who create environments where compassionate, skillful care can thrive and that empower nurses to deliver exceptional patient care.

“This recognition is a reflection of the incredible team I have the privilege to lead,” Gray said.

“The work we do isn’t easy, and it takes a compassionate and resilient team to show up every day for our patients and for one another.”

The DAISY Award and the DAISY Leader Award are part of the DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate care nurses provide to patients and families every day. To learn more about the DAISY Award recognition program at Reid Health or submit a nomination, visit https://www.reidhealth.org/daisy-award.