Nurses who lead, educate celebrated with DAISY Awards
Nominations highlight commitment, advocacy, compassion and dedication to patients and co-workers
February 07, 2025
Johanah Carrera, a postpartum nurse manager at UCI Medical Center in Orange, was nominated by two colleagues for the DAISY Nurse Leadership Award.
Orange, Calif. — UCI Health recently recognized several nurses who have consistently displayed the values of compassion, courage and integrity in both patient care and co-worker interactions. The DAISY Awards honor nurses who represent the best of their profession.
Johanah Carrera, a postpartum nurse manager at UCI Medical Center in Orange, was nominated by two colleagues for the DAISY Nurse Leadership Award for being a dedicated mentor with vast nursing knowledge and expertise.
“She creates an environment where learning flourishes. Her passion for nursing education shines through in everything she does. Johanah Carrera is an inspiration to me and embodies the qualities of an ideal clinical nurse educator,” a nursing student wrote in her letter.
“She is not just a mentor, but someone who sets the standard for what nursing education should be. Johanah is the best clinical educator I could have asked for, and I am profoundly grateful for her impact on my professional journey.”
Another colleague nominated Carrera for exemplifying the highest standards of service excellence, quality and safety. Her contributions have directly improved professional relationships, empowered nurses to expand their skills and improved patient care.
“By fostering an environment of understanding and empathy, Johanah has significantly improved the quality of care for patients facing challenging circumstances, ensuring that they receive the support and compassion they deserve. Johanah's collaborative spirit and passion for nursing are evident in every project she undertakes.”
Alyssa Torreflores, a nurse navigator at the UCI Health Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, was nominated by a patient undergoing a challenging course of treatment.
“Nurse Alyssa ... is the ‘glue’ that keeps my cancer treatment going. From coordinating with doctors, pharmacies, labs, chemo schedule, side effects, among other things, I don’t know how she does it. She makes it all look so easy. Without a doubt, nurse Alyssa has given me strength during my cancer journey.
A patient and fellow nursing professional nominated medical center nurse Tricia Fernandez.
“Tricia was not only professional and courteous, but she also demonstrated a real command of her profession. She participated in my care by being a patient advocate, suggesting treatments and medication that offered relief. She always demonstrated a professional demeanor,” their nomination letter said.
Margaret Desierto, a surgical nurse at UCI Health ― Fountain Valley, earned the DAISY Award for her empathy and compassion toward a grateful patient.
“Nurse Maggie stood out to me as an extraordinary person who empowered those around her, including myself. Maggie is the best there can be.”
Telemetry nurse Mindy Vuu was nominated by a patient’s family, who appreciated her kindness toward their loved one.
“My family and I witnessed her patiently explain details over and over again. She did not get irritated, she never got overwhelmed. She was professional, kind and caring. Mindy made sure my family and I felt welcome in the room and on the unit. “
Sunflower Awards
William Londono, a medical assistant at the UCI Health Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and Ambulatory Care building on the UCI Health ― Irvine medical campus, earned a Sunflower Award for his reliable and efficient leadership.
“He dedicated days of his time to setting up exam rooms, organizing supplies and instruments for the clinics, and being a lead for other staff to delegate tasks and coordinate efficient workflow. He has been an asset to his team and has extended his knowledge and willingness to help others by leading an in-service for our staff on the fourth-floor infusion,” his nominator wrote.
Patient experience manager Kevin Columbo was nominated for a Sunflower Award by a grateful patient.
“When I was extremely worried, he was proactive with information for me. He was funny, empathetic, professional and just a nice person. You can tell he likes his job and working with people. He's an asset in the department and as a UCI Health employee. I had a great experience with him.”
How to nominate a team member
Anyone can nominate an exceptional nurse or patient care team member for a DAISY or Sunflower Award, including faculty, staff and patients. Simply fill out the appropriate nomination form below:
About the DAISY Award
The individual DAISY Award recognizes a nurse for being an outstanding role model. To be nominated for this award, they must consistently demonstrate a caring attitude focusing on meeting the needs of patients and families, listen with their heart, significantly makes a difference in the life of a patient, shows good assessment and critical thinking skills and brings enthusiasm and energy to their daily work. The DAISY Award committee selects one nominated nurse each month who exemplifies what it means to truly be an outstanding caregiver.