Connect

Devora Henderson "understands healing is not only about physical needs — it's also about preserving dignity, confidence, and humanity."

Mesha Jones, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, Director, Staffing Resource Office, UVA Health University Medical Center, and BEE Award Committee Chair Samantha Shifflett surprised Devora Henderson, Patient Care Technician, Float Team, with a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award for providing exceptional support to patients and their families, and her colleagues.

Jones nominated Henderson:

"Devora has been with UVA Health for less than a year, but in that short amount of time, she has made a remarkable and lasting impact on the patients, families, and team members she serves. She has quickly become recognized across multiple units for her compassion, professionalism, dependability, and commitment to providing exceptional care.

"Being a Float Team member requires flexibility, adaptability, and confidence. Each shift can bring a new unit, a new team, and a new patient population. Devora embraces this challenge with grace and positivity. No matter where she is assigned — she arrives ready to support the team, build relationships, and provide the highest level of care. She does not simply complete assigned tasks — she looks for opportunities to make a difference.

"Recently, Devora received heartfelt recognition from the 4 Central team after demonstrating an extraordinary example of compassion and patient-centered care. While assisting two patients who requested showers, Devora worked alongside the nurse without hesitation or complaint. She ensured that both patients received the care they needed while maintaining their comfort and dignity. During this time, one patient expressed feeling embarrassed about his hair and appearance. Recognizing that this was more than a simple request, Devora immediately responded with kindness and empathy.

"She apologized that the clippers were unavailable, but did not let that be the end of the conversation. Instead, Devora found clean scissors and carefully trimmed the patient’s hair. This thoughtful act may have seemed small, but the impact was unforgettable. The patient’s smile showed how much it meant to feel seen, respected, and cared for as a person.

"Devora understands that healing is not only about physical needs — it's also about preserving dignity, confidence, and humanity. A nurse who witnessed this moment shared that in more than 12 years of healthcare experience, Devora’s level of compassion and concern for a patient’s self-image stood out and was so touching it brought tears to their eyes.

"Devora also received recognition from 6 West for her outstanding teamwork and ability to support a unit during a challenging shift. When she floated to the unit during a time of limited PCT staffing, she immediately stepped in and made a tremendous difference. Team members described her as organized, proactive, and attentive throughout the entire shift. She anticipated patient and team member needs, communicated effectively with nurses, and willingly helped wherever support was needed. Her positive attitude and strong teamwork created a smoother experience for team members and patients.

"What makes Devora exceptional is not only what she does, but how she does it. She approaches every interaction with kindness, respect, and a willingness to serve others. She demonstrates accountability by ensuring tasks are completed, professionalism through her collaboration with different teams, and empathy by recognizing the emotional needs behind patient requests. She brings calm, compassion, and excellence into every space she enters.

"In less than a year, Devora has built a reputation as a trusted and valued Float Team member. The recognition she continues to receive from different units reflects the consistency of her character and the pride she takes in caring for others. She represents what it means to be excellent every day — not through one single moment — but through the countless ways she supports patients, families, and colleagues.

"Devora truly deserves the BEE Award because she reminds us that exceptional care is found in both the big moments and the small acts of kindness that patients remember forever."

Know a Deserving Team Member?

The BEE Award recognizes UVA Health University Medical Center team members who work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences — just as bees and flowers depend on one another.

Every month, Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) BEE Award Committee honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center team members with this award. Submit a nomination.