CNO Roundtable 2025
Q5: Lifelong Learning
What nursing-related insight or skill have you learned within the past year or two?
Angela Brady, San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital
I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the importance of emotional intelligence. Additionally, I’ve developed my skills in crisis management, particularly during high-stress situations.
Annabelle Duschane Braun, Orange Coast Medical Center
COVID taught me that necessity is the mother of invention. We’re now much more adaptable, with better communication and quicker decision-making.
Sharon Brown, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center
I’ve developed a deep interest in how healthcare policy directly influences nursing practice and healthcare operations. Understanding policy is crucial.
Brandi Cassingham, Saddleback Medical Center
I’ve learned “the power of the pause.” As nurses, we often want to rush in to fix things, but it pays to take the time to assess what’s causing the issue before trying to implement a solution.
Danielle Gabele, Ventura County Medical Center and Santa Paula Hospital
I’ve done a lot of work on being a better listener. I’ve also learned that I’m more effective when I guide people to the solution rather than just giving it to them.
Derrek Hidalgo, California Rehabilitation Institute
I’ve learned to be very open to what’s to come. Past ways of learning are rapidly changing; technology is booming. We need to be open to the new experiences coming our way.
Ceonne Houston-Raasikh, Keck Hospital of USC
I’ve learned how to lead nurses towards adaptability to digital transformation: providing space for nurses to share their fears while building a foundation for a cultural shift.
Awa Jones, USC Norris Cancer Hospital
A valuable insight I’ve gained is the importance of curiosity without judgment and leading with vulnerability. These skills have helped me to foster stronger connections with my team.
Valerie Kaura, Redlands Community Hospital
I’ve learned the value of using the HEART model to review adverse events. This is a comprehensive approach focused on open dialogue, timely resolution, and continuous learning.
Grace Kwasman, Adventist Health Glendale
I’ve realized that the most important qualities of a successful leader are warmth and competence. A leader must demonstrate expertise and capability, but equally important is the ability to show genuine care and empathy.
David Marshall, Cedars-Sinai
I’ve deepened my understanding of adaptive leadership and its practical application in navigating crises. One key insight is the importance of balancing technical and interpersonal skills.
Ed Matzen, LADHS Correctional Health Services
As a leader, you cannot know everything, but I’ve learned that it’s important to know the skills that your team members possess so you can tap into their knowledge.
Jinhee Nguyen, Huntington Health
Last year, I earned my DNP/MBA dual degree from Johns Hopkins. Completing this program has truly helped me see the big picture in nursing and healthcare.
Roz Nolan, Dignity Health Community Hospital of San Bernardino
I’ve refined the skills of crucial conversations and empathetic communication, which are essential in ensuring that my feedback and decisions are objective, constructive, and fair.
Greg Rogers, Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills/West Ventura County
One valuable insight is the importance of adaptability. The healthcare landscape constantly presents new challenges and opportunities, but I’ve learned to navigate uncertainties with confidence.
Dinarte Viveiros, MemorialCare Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital
I’ve had mentors throughout my career, and I recognized that I needed to support future nurses and nurse leaders in this way. Giving back to the next generation is key to your own growth.
Vicki White, Henry Mayo
I’m a relationship-based person, and much of what I’ve learned in my career has come from the people around me. The most profound lessons often come when I have been least willing to listen.
Kimmalo Wright, Olive View-UCLA Medical Center
One of the most rewarding things I have learned is that education goes beyond the formal setting: You can learn from anyone at any time. We learn daily through our nurses and their innovations.
Alexis Zamarripa, PIH Health Downey Hospital
One key insight has been that effective leadership is about influence, not just authority. Your ability to inspire and empower your team leads to increased engagement, greater accountability, and a stronger sense of ownership. ■
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In this Article: Leadership and Management
