Super Star leader: Anita Harris-Brown

Your name, title and department. How long have you worked here?
Anita Harris-Brown, DNP, MHA RN, NEA-BC, Director of Clinical Support Operations, Nursing
I’ve been at Texas Children’s Hospital for 2 ½ years, starting in January 2019

Tell us how you found out you won a super star award.
I had a 15-minute meeting placed on my calendar late Friday for Monday at 8:15 a.m. from my VP Jennifer Sanders. I got a little anxious and texted her to figure the context of the meeting. She stated very calmly I just need to hand off a few things to you. As I walked into Jennifer’s office for our meeting she greeted me with a big smile and informed me of the award, and a celebration followed later. I was so stunned to see my husband, staff, peers and leaders honor me. I was totally speechless.

What does it mean to be recognized for the hard work you do?
It’s very humbling and gratifying to be recognized. I am so dedicated and passionate about my role and my teams in which the work doesn’t feel hard. It feels natural to me.

How has the organization helped you achieve your personal and professional goals?
The mission and values of Texas Children’s aligns with my personal goals through the care that we provide to women and children. I knew I was a fit for Texas Children’s for me with the creation of my role. This role is very dynamic and all servicers are an integral piece to achieve excellence by supporting Texas Children’s nursing vision.

What do you think makes someone at Texas Children’s a super star?
I believe the ability to be consistent and steadfast in always doing the right thing, although it may not be the easiest thing to do.

What is your motivation for going above and beyond every day at work?
It’s the children and women that we serve; it’s my team, my leaders; it’s the mission and ultimately the belief and trust that Texas Children’s has for me that inspires me to do the work.

What is the best thing about working at Texas Children’s?
My teams. They are amazing and so dedicated. I couldn’t ask for a better team and I am so honored and blessed to serve them.

What does it mean to you that everyone at Texas Children’s is considered a leader?
It means that everyone has a voice, everyone matters and everyone is included.

What is your leadership definition?
A leader servant is the core of my leadership trait. I define this by extracting greatness from others so they can truly reach their prime potential.

Anything else you want to share?
I would like to thank Regina Wysocki for her kind words which really meant a lot to me. The fact that she recognizes I am a leader that listens, inspires, empowers and let the team determine their own narrative.