Bay Pines VA nurse makes history as VHA Innovation Ecosystem Catalyst Fellow

Hallman's selection makes her the first nurse chosen from the southwest Florida healthcare system and the only nurse participating in this year’s fellowship.

“This is the pinnacle of being a servant leader,” said Hallman. “It’s a tremendous honor to represent nursing services as part of this pivotal cohort that allows us to contribute to the innovation and transformation of health care.”

The MIT Catalyst Fellowship is part of the VHA Innovation Ecosystem which serves as a catalyst for enabling the discovery and spread of mission-driven health care innovation that exceeds expectations, restores hope, and builds trust within the Veteran community.

Hallman applied to the fellowship to invest in her own professional development; however, she believes that news of her selection can shine a light on the possibilities available to other nursing leaders.

“Opportunities like this show nurses there are infinite opportunities,” added Hallman. “I hope my selection as a fellow and the work I’m able to do through this cohort will inspire nurses throughout VA to challenge themselves by exploring ways to grow and improve themselves and their practice,” added Hallman.

According to the release from VHA IE Communications, Fellows work to spark innovative solutions to unmet medical and health care needs through a 360-degree perspective that allows them to draw insights from diverse experiences. 

“It’s humbling and exciting to be working with the best and brightest, knowing we can make a collective impact on the health care delivery to Veterans and those in the public sector,” continued Hallman. “I’m working alongside engineers, medical doctors, PhDs, and it’s great to add my real-world experiences of providing direct patient care as part of our work.”

Her Bay Pines VA Healthcare System leadership team is also celebrating her selection and confident that Hallman will pave the way for improvements in health care and other nurses to follow in her path.

“Dr. Hallman’s leadership, experience, and commitment toward patient care exemplifies what it means to be a servant leader and makes her the perfect selection to represent Bay Pines VA Healthcare System and all nurses across the country,” said Associate Director of Patient Care Services/Nurse Executive Carrie Hawkins. “We are proud of her and excited for the impact she will make for the future of health care.”