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GRMC Celebrates Vanessa Tudela as Employee of the Year 2024

Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC) is proud to announce Vanessa Tudela, Medical-Surgical Manager, as the hospital’s Employee of the Year for 2024. With over eight years of dedicated service at GRMC, Tudela’s journey reflects not only her professional growth but her unwavering commitment to providing the highest quality patient care and supporting her team.

Tudela’s career at GRMC began ‘with a leap of faith’ as she took the opportunity to initially work as a Maternal-Child Intensive Care Unit (MICU) registered nurse, while working at another outpatient clinical job, and caring for her daughter. However, her passion in learning and ambition to keep improving, plus trying new things eventually led her to transition into other nursing specialties like Pediatrics/PICU and the Emergency Department. In addition, her passion in teaching and research also led her to work as a Clinical Nurse Educator, an SME/EHR instructor, and helping with nursing initiatives and data collection in her now current home, Medical-Surgical, to which she has contributed in both educational and operational improvements.

As her career progressed, Tudela’s leadership capabilities became clear. She took on charge nursing responsibilities and, with the encouragement and mentorship from her colleagues, was promoted to Unit Manager for the Medical-Surgical unit. Her hands-on approach, nurturing nature, and unwavering dedication to team success, and direct focus on patient care set her apart as a natural leader, ultimately earning her the prestigious Employee of the Year recognition.

Reflecting on her career, Tudela shared, “When I began my journey at GRMC, I was driven by my passion for always wanting to help others and a calling to mentor and lead by example. From the MICU to Med-Surg, my focus has always been on learning and revising methods on what can meet the needs of our patients, as well as how we can achieve the ultimate goal, which is for them to get better.”
“If it’s one thing I learned in life and in my nursing career, you have to get to know the heart of the people you are working with, and only then you can understand what is achievable to truly help them be better. This mantra I always try to apply whether working with patients or my staff. It is why I am truly humbled by this recognition because it’s not just about me. It’s about the team, the people I get to work with every day. We all share a commitment to providing exceptional care and this is shown through the support we have of one
another. I am honored to continue the legacy of healthcare leadership at GRMC and to help move our island
forward in improving medical care for our community,” Tudela adds.

Tudela’s leadership is a shining example of GRMC’s dedication to quality patient care, professional development, and fostering a collaborative environment. Her growth within the organization—from a bedside registered nurse to nurse manager—demonstrates the hospital’s commitment to nurturing talent and investing in the success of its staff.

Jennifer Cruz, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at GRMC, commented, “Vanessa has consistently gone above and beyond in every role she’s taken on. She is a true leader, driven by a passion for providing compassionate care, while also supporting and mentoring her team. Her dedication to excellence has had a lasting impact on the Med-Surg unit and beyond. Vanessa embodies everything GRMC stands for: compassion, professionalism, and a tireless commitment to the well-being of our patients and staff.”

Dr. Alexander “Beau” Wielaard, M.D., GRMC CEO, also expressed his admiration, “Vanessa’s career at GRMC is a testament to the values we hold dear—continuous learning, leadership, and dedication to patient care. She is an exemplary member of our team, and we are incredibly proud to have her represent GRMC as Employee of the Year. Her journey speaks to the heart of what makes our hospital such a special place.”

Tudela’s recognition as Employee of the Year is a reflection of her passion, hard work, and years of service to the GRMC community. She continues to inspire those around her, setting a high standard for healthcare leadership and patient-centered care.
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible colleagues who have supported me every step of the way,” Tudela said. “This award is a reminder of the importance of teamwork in healthcare, and I’m excited to keep growing and contributing to GRMC’s mission to provide top-tier care for our island.”

Tudela’s story is a powerful example of how dedication, growth, and passion can impact not just a career, but an entire community. GRMC looks forward to her continued leadership and contributions to improving healthcare in Guam.

Learn more about Tudela’s story and visit https://www.grmc.gu/careers/ to join #TEAMGRMC

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