This story is part of a series on the 2024 Awards of Excellence recipients.
The highly coveted awards are presented annually to faculty, support staff and administrative employees in celebration of the impact they have on students, colleagues, and the college at large. A team award is also given out to a group of employees who have demonstrated outstanding collaborative work. All award winners receive a dedicated parking spot on campus.
Elaine Burgess, Clinical Supervisor in the School of Nursing and PSW, is Niagara College’s 2024 Support Staff Award of Excellence recipient.
An alumna who graduated from NC’s Mack School of Nursing RN program in 1989, Burgess brings a wealth of knowledge to her role nurturing and supporting the next generation of Practical Nurses and PSWs. A humble, authentic collaborator whose focus on student success is unwavering, she uses a coaching approach to guide students to use their knowledge and skills, while holding them to high standards.
Burgess displays genuine empathy and compassion to all and is known for fostering inclusive work and learning spaces that recognize and value the diversity of the NC community. In her determination to support wholistic student success, she spearheaded a new initiative in the School of Nursing and PSW called the Resilience Café, where students come together in a safe place to share, encourage each other, and build social connection. The initiative complements her work as an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Catalyst, a role in which she is working to centre student voices and the placement experiences of NC students.
When speaking of Elaine, her colleagues say that she “inspires us every day with her profound integrity, her smile, dedication and leadership.”
InsideNC caught up with Burgess, who shared more on her role at NC and passion for nursing.
How long have you worked at the College?
I have been with Niagara College for almost 13 years. I began my career here as a part-time faculty member in the School of Nursing and PSW in January 2012. I then accepted the position of full-time Clinical Supervisor in the fall of 2012.
What does it mean to you to be recognized by your colleagues and the College with this award?
Honestly, I am beyond honoured to have received the Award of Excellence. To be recognized in this way, I am filled with gratitude and very humbled by the entire experience. Knowing that it was my peers who put my name forward, I am still a bit lost for words.
I feel it’s important to acknowledge that it always takes a village; it is the collaborative spirit and dedication of our entire team that creates an environment for success and a desire to bring excellence. This is clearly illustrated in the creation and tremendous triumph of the Resilience Café.
How do you inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals through your work?
As a Clinical Supervisor, my role is to help facilitate the students’ learning in a positive and supportive environment; ensuring that the students are accountable for their knowledge to demonstrate application in the clinical setting. I believe that students need to feel safe and encouraged in their learning with an understanding of their responsibility in providing safe, compassionate, and professional care. I strive to share with every student the true privilege I feel with participating in our client’s healthcare journey.
Why is the nursing profession special to you?
Nursing is truly my passion. I have had the great fortune to work in many different areas of nursing throughout my career, each showcasing the importance of nursing being a combination of health science and holistic art. Also, the client has always been my priority; their care is paramount and appreciating that I have this opportunity to foster our students by promoting strong nursing education through a robust clinical experience while simultaneously demonstrating empathetic client-based professional care is a gift.
What’s been a memorable moment during your time at NC?
There have been many memorable moments at Niagara College, and I find it hard to think of just one. I love being in the clinical setting with my students and see them start to make the connections between their theoretical knowledge and application, but even more powerful for me is witnessing the development of the therapeutic relationship with their clients, demonstrating compassion and kindness while providing their care.
As a Clinical Supervisor, I have the responsibility and privilege to foster and guide new healthcare workers and for me, the most memorable moment is when you see a past student creating positive change in the healthcare system.
