UHS continues to recognize the care and compassion of our extraordinary nursing leaders with the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. Kay Boland, RN, Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, was named the latest recipient of this award! Kay was presented with the award at a surprise celebration attended by many colleagues and friends she’s made over her years at UHS.
Kay was nominated for the award by several colleagues, who praised her for her mentorship, her commitment to advancing the nursing profession, advocating for and uplifting others, and always making time to listen to and make connections with staff and patients. Her leadership has had a profound impact across the organization, cultivating working environments where team members are valued, heard, and supported in their professional growth.
Thank you, Kay, for a career leading with Compassion, Trust, Respect, Teamwork, and Innovation – truly embodying The UHS Way!
Some of the kind words from her nominations are shared below:
“Kay embodies the belief that leadership is not about titles, but about lifting others up—and she lives this truth daily. She has created an environment built on trust, compassion, mutual respect, and ethical practice. Under her guidance, nurses are encouraged to speak up, innovate, and grow. She champions professional development at every level, ensuring that nurses have pathways to advance their skills and careers.”
“One of the most meaningful examples of Kay’s leadership occurred during the Main Tower work and workflow sessions. Kay sat with frontline staff and engaged in real conversation listening to their ideas, concerns, and lived experiences. The impact was immediate and powerful. Staff felt seen. They felt valued. Her willingness to listen and respond built trust, strengthened relationships, and demonstrated her deep commitment to improving both the staff and patient experience.”
“As Chief Operating Officer, Kay remains a steadfast advocate for nursing across the system. She champions safe practice environments, ensures essential resources are available, and elevates the voice of nurses in operational decision-making. Her passion for advancing nursing excellence is reflected in her daily leadership and her unwavering support for nurses at every level.”
The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune SYstem) Award is an international recognition program that honors and celebrates the skillful, compassionate care nurses provide every day. The DAISY Foundation introduced the DAISY Nurse Leader Award to recognize and honor the special nurse leaders who create a workplace where compassionate care thrives. To learn more, visit DAISYFoundation.org.
UHS will continue to bestow the DAISY Nurse Leader Award annually during our celebration of Nurses Week. Nominations will be accepted throughout the year. The online form for nominating a UHS nursing leader can be found by clicking here. If you have any questions, send an email to heather.edwards@nyuhs.org or daisy@nyuhs.org.
See photos from Kay’s celebration below:
