DUSON Faculty & Staff Leadership Spotlight highlights the diverse leadership background of our nursing faculty and staff. In this spotlight, leadership isn't focused on a "title." However, it is the act of motivating people to do more than they ever thought possible in pursuit of a greater good.

DUSON shines a light on MSN Clinical Placement Staff member Izy Lewis Obi who's been with Duke for more than 19 years. 

Q: What would people be surprised to know about you?

A: I consider myself to be an athlete; one of these days.... 

Q: What is a cause you're passionate about?

A: I'm passionate about helping others - spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally. I am also passionate about sharing a word, a prayer, a hug, a truth...whatever it takes to generate, motivate, and/or activate empowerment, "can do" perception, positive thought, and overall well-being.

I still live by my Girl Scout motto: "On my honor I will try to help other people every day - especially the folks at home."

Q: Tell us about a leadership role you hold with a project, service group or organization that you are involved with outside of DUSON.

A: One of my 2015 leadership roles is appointment to serve as co-chair of Duke University's Bereavement Advisory Council (BAC).  BAC is a multidisciplinary group of professionals who are interested in supporting and developing programs for patients, families and staff.  Our mission is to facilitate and support healthy grieving before, during, and after death, and to educate and support the staff who provide care.  BAC-sponsored activities include: the DUSON and DMP grief walls, biennial Staff Memorial and Services of Remembrance, journaling, and links to mindfulness and support programs such as Holiday ReLEAF.  Visit the BAC website to find out more about bereavement services at Duke: https://www.dukemedicine.org/patients-and-visitors/pastoral-services/ber...

Q: Why was it important for you to be involved with this organization and carry the responsibility of this role?

A: BAC is a way to "do the most good" by helping others and myself seek a higher level of meaning and understanding.  Participation at the University level affords an opportunity to make an important, strong contribution toward the strategic strengthening and underlying development of all Duke patients, families, and staff.

Faculty & Staff Leadership Spotlight Submissions: If you would like to be featured or know someone who deserves to be featured, click here to complete the DUSON Faculty & Staff Leadership Spotlight Questionnaire.