Desa Dlugosz is manager of interprofessional practice at William Osler Health System in Brampton. In this role, she advances evidence-informed practice, research and knowledge translation, and supports clinical competency development, orientation and continuing education, among other duties. Desa entered nursing to help people, and that commitment evolved into transforming systems that benefit even more people. One of her greatest accomplishments is the ability to influence nursing practice beyond individual patient encounters. She says it has been deeply gratifying to strengthen systems and create environments where nurses and learners can thrive. She says this award not only reflects her personal journey of growth and discovery but also the support and dedication of the mentors she has had the privilege to work with throughout her career. In the years ahead, she hopes to continue to advance initiatives that strengthen nursing practice, learner development and patient outcomes.
The Leadership Award in Nursing Administration is offered to the RN or NP who provides exemplary nursing management by acting as a change agent, resource and mentor within a professional setting. This individual actively collaborates with health-care teams to enhance patient care through the development and implementation of innovative and creative strategies.
