From NICU Level 2 to General Medicine/Transplant, long-tenured team members in West Tower have helped to shape care, guide culture and strengthen trust with patients and families at Texas Children’s. Their experience, wisdom and compassion have built a foundation of excellence, stability and trust that spans decades.
NICU Level 2
NICU Level 2 is home to 42 staff members with more than 20 years of service. Many of these team members have devoted most of their careers to caring for critically ill newborns and supporting families during vulnerable moments. Their longevity reflects a culture of belonging, purpose and collaboration. These values translate directly into safer care and steadier hands at the bedside.
The dedication of these seasoned caregivers is visible in every corner of the unit, reflected not just in patient care but in the support and excellence they help sustain. A board in NICU Level 2 honors staff members with more than two decades of service, celebrating their dedication while inspiring everyone around them. For families, it represents enduring expertise and trust. For newer staff, this recognition embodies a living legacy of mentorship, guidance and commitment.
“Our tenured team members bring knowledge, heart and stability that make a real difference for families and colleagues every day,” said Megnon Stewart, assistant clinical director of nursing for the Newborn Center. “Their years of experience aren’t just numbers; they represent countless moments of care, comfort and guidance. Each team member strengthens the entire unit, mentoring newer nurses and creating a culture where families feel safe and supported.”
General Medicine Transplant Unit
That same dedication was celebrated recently in the General Medicine/Transplant unit, where nine employees were recognized for 20 to 35 years of service. Many have been with the department through multiple moves, such as from the Abercrombie building to the 20th floor of West Tower where 12 beds have been recently added to meet growing patient needs.
Their longevity reflects our hospital’s deep dedication to our mission and HEART values. These seasoned team members have witnessed the evolution of the unit, adapting to new practices, technologies and patient needs while providing consistent guidance to newer staff members.
The following staff members have been recognized for their decades of service in the General Medicine/Transplant unit:
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Nurse Amy McCormick, 20 years
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Nurse Diana Martinez, 20 years
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Patient Care Assistant Angela Jackson, 30 years
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Patient Care Assistant Veronica Megerle, 25 years
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Nurse Educator Heather Morand-Reid, 35 years
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Nurse Pablita Ugat, 20 years
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Nurse Erika Guidry, 25 years
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Nurse Kingsley Okeke, 35 years
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Nurse Diana Martinez, 20 years
“Having multiple tenured staff members within one department speaks volumes about the culture we have built — one rooted in teamwork, excellence and dedication to patient care,” said Norma Rodriguez, assistant clinical director of Acute Care Leadership.
“Their long-term commitment reflects not only personal passion but also a supportive environment where staff members feel valued, empowered and inspired to grow,” she added. “This continuity strengthens our teams, enhances mentorship and ultimately ensures the highest level of care for every patient and family who walks through our doors.”
Across West Tower, these stories share a common thread: when team members feel valued and connected to their purpose, they stay. And in staying, they elevate care, mentor colleagues and leave an enduring impact on our hospital, patients and the families who rely on them.
Join us in congratulating these impactful team members for their decades of dedication to our mission!
