At Daily Nurse, we proudly highlight exceptional nurses who make a real difference in their communities. This week, we honor Dawn Daley, RN, BSN, PCCN, a nurse clinician at Holy Cross Health in Florida, as our Nurse of the Week. This recognition is well-deserved and comes as she is also named Holy Cross Health’s Colleague of the Month for July 2025.
With over thirty years of service at Holy Cross, Daley has become an essential presence in the Intermediate Care Unit (IMC). She does more than provide outstanding patient care. She mentors new nurses, educates staff, and plays a key role in implementing evidence-based policies. She approaches all of this with a unique blend of compassion, strength, and dedication.
“Dawn goes above and beyond in everything she does, showing true dedication, compassion, and excellence in nursing,” says Kimone Perry, Manager of IMC.
Daley’s leadership reaches beyond the clinical setting. Affectionately known as the unit’s “mama bear,” she offers steady support for patients, families, and colleagues. Whether she comforts an anxious family member or guides a new nurse during their first week, her presence is uplifting and encouraging.
“She is our mama bear and a pillar of support,” adds Perry. “She provides comfort and reassurance to those around her, creating a work environment that is both efficient and uplifting.”
Daley began her nursing career at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Youngstown, Ohio. She spent seven years there as a registered nurse before joining Holy Cross Health. Over the past 32 years, she has held various roles at the hospital, but her core values have remained unchanged: lead with heart, work with purpose, and strive for excellence.
“Beyond her clinical skills, Dawn is a true rockstar in every sense,” says Perry. “Her commitment to her nursing team is unmatched, and her actions consistently reflect the highest standards of our profession.”
Daley holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Diploma in Nursing from the St. Elizabeth Health Center School of Nursing. She also studied at Youngstown State University. Her educational and career journey demonstrates her deep commitment to lifelong learning and the improvement of quality care.
It’s rare to find someone who can educate, advocate, lead, and comfort—all in the same shift. For Dawn Daley, it’s just another day in a career defined by excellence.
Congratulations to our Nurse of the Week, Dawn Daley—a rockstar, a mentor, and an inspiration to us all.
Nominate a Nurse of the Week! Every Wednesday, DailyNurse.com features a nurse making a difference in the lives of their patients, students, and colleagues. We encourage you to nominate a nurse who has impacted your life as the next Nurse of the Week, and we’ll feature them online and in our weekly newsletter.
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