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"Antonio Portell is more than a colleague — he is a steady presence, a quiet leader, and a source of kindness in our busy environment."  

His UVA Health colleagues say Antonio Portell, Administrative Specialist, UVA Health's Children's, always ensures that his "team members feel seen and appreciated." Now, they've made him the center of attention, and it's well-deserved.

At the Battle Building — UVA Health University Medical Center Associate Chief Nursing Officer Karin Skeen, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, and Jenny Ernest, Nursing Governance Coordinator, Nursing Professional Governance Organization, surprised Portell with a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award.

Christina Knicely, BSN, RN, CNML, nominated Portell:

"It is with deep appreciation and admiration that we nominate Antonio for this award. He is a leader in culture and morale. Antonio’s office is a welcoming space — stocked with coffee, tea, water, soda, and snacks — all paid for out of his own pocket. This thoughtful gesture has created a safe and comforting environment where team members feel seen and appreciated. His generosity fosters a sense of community and care that is rare and deeply valued.

"Antonio’s leadership shines in moments of crisis. When a last minute scheduling conflict threatened to derail a major clinic event, Antonio stepped in without hesitation. He coordinated with multiple departments, reorganized logistics, and ensured the event ran smoothly — all while maintaining his usual workload. His ability to stay composed under pressure and rally others is a testament to his quiet but powerful leadership. Most people didn’t even know there had been a problem — that’s how smoothly Antonio handled it. He’s the glue that holds us together.

"He is a mentor and a guide. New team members often seek out Antonio for onboarding support — not because it’s his role — but because he is approachable, knowledgeable, and always willing to help. He takes time to explain processes, share resources, and ensure others feel confident in their roles. He took time to show me the ropes and checked in on me every day that first week.

"Antonio Portell is more than a colleague — he is a steady presence, a quiet leader, and a source of kindness in our busy environment. His impact is felt every day, in both big ways and small gestures. He exemplifies the values we strive for and is more than deserving of this recognition."

Teresa Green, Director, also hails Portelli's operational excellence:

"The heart of our Pediatrics Clinics and Operations — Antonio is a dependable, kind, and tireless team member whose leadership and dedication elevate everyone around him. Antonio supports the nurse director, medical director, and seven managers in Ambulatory Pediatrics with exceptional reliability.

"But his influence extends far beyond his formal responsibilities. He is a trusted anchor for the entire clinic staff — known for his calm presence, resourcefulness, and unwavering support.

"Antonio leads by example. When our clinics faced logistical challenges with patient snack supplies, Antonio took the initiative to research alternatives, negotiate pricing, and streamline the ordering process. His efforts resulted in a 60% cost reduction — saving the department approximately $900 per month — and improved delivery times to within two days. This wasn’t a task assigned to him; it was a problem he saw and solved, demonstrating his proactive leadership and commitment to operational excellence.

“Antonio didn’t wait for someone to fix the problem — he just did it! That’s who he is. He sees a need and takes care of it.”

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