Employee of the month

	Kelly Connolly, BSN, RN
	From previous issues: John Beagan Geraldine Mitchell Veronica Baptiste Patrick Bibbins Teodora Amado Kelli Sheehan, RN Roberta Hoffman, MSW Josh Bain Randall Jenkins Rosanne Scurti Chad Cotter Cathy Irvin Gail Hockman Ana Serrano

Congratulations to Kelly Connolly, BSN, RN, staff nurse III in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), who's been selected as Children's Hospital Boston's Employee of the Month for December.

One of only a handful of level III nurses at Children's, Connolly puts her experience, team-building savvy and communication skills to good use—and it hasn't gone unnoticed. In fact, her nomination was so long that it jammed one of the judge's printers. Clearly, the clinicians she works with to make the perioperative process flow seamlessly—from pre-op to the operating room to the PACU to an individual floor—appreciate her leadership style. "Kelly's communication skills are impeccable," says a nominator. "She's consistently supportive, diplomatic and respectful to all while creatively problem-solving. She sends a clear message that quality patient care and safety aren't to be sacrificed for throughput; what's remarkable is that she also maintains throughput."

A charismatic natural leader, Connolly creates a positive environment for patients and staff alike with her enthusiasm and can-do attitude. "I've worked in two hospitals before coming here," says a coworker. "I've never seen a unit with as much teamwork as the PACU." Connolly makes a point to recognize fellow employees when they go above and beyond, and is always available to help them solve problems. "Kelly can always rally the team when circumstances aren't optimal," says a coworker.

Connolly doesn't stop there; she also boosts her team's morale by spearheading extra-curricular activities. She's organized team trips to Red Sox games for the past 10 years, and they've become so popular that nearly 100 employees (and their families) attend. But perhaps the highest compliment comes from one of her team members, who sums up Connolly's abilities by saying, "I would welcome Kelly to care for one of my own children."

If you are a Children's employee and would like to nominate a co-worker to be Employee of the Month, please visit the Exceptional Care, Exceptional Service section of the intranet and click on "Recognize an Employee for Exceptional Service."