Tomeka Scott, who has spent her nursing career at Brandermill Woods in Chesterfield, has been named the 2016 VHCA-VCAL Director of Nursing of the Year. This award recognizes an individual who demonstrate clinical expertise and leadership in providing quality long term care in the Commonwealth.
Scott has spent her career at Brandermill Woods, starting as a Certified Nursing Assistant more than 20 years ago. She went on to acquire her Medication Aide Certification, become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and then a Registered Nurse (RN), assuming greater and greater responsibilities for administrative, staffing, and clinical issues along the way.
As Scott was studying to advance her career, she discovered that she was seriously ill with stage 4 cancer. She credits prayer and an exceptional medical team with helping her to find the determination to live. This experience imbued her with a greater commitment to make a difference in the lives of others. Her experience as a cancer survivor has given her special ability to relate to residents when they are ill. Families know when they approach her with a concern or issue that she will remedy the situation, often working behind the scenes to find a solution.
“Tomeka’s passion for nursing shows through in everything she does. She still picks up the occasional night shift and cheers everyone else up when things get tough,” said Cynthia Ritter, LNHA, Administrator of Brandermill Woods Healthcare and Assisted Living Community.
Today Scott is responsible for the daily operations of Brandermill Woods’s Health Care Community and Assisted Living, including managing more than 80 staff members, engaging residents, and interacting with their families and loved ones. Many have remarked that the excellent performance of Scott’s nursing team can be attributed to her dedication and leadership. Her professionalism, open door policy, and compassion have earned her the respect of her staff and peers.
“Tomeka’s dedication to long term care and to ensuring the best possible care for her residents is exactly what families hope for when entrusting their loved ones to the care of a skilled nursing center,” said Keith Hare, President and CEO of VHCA-VCAL.
Scott is also a devoted mother of four who is an advocate for autism awareness because of her son, a supporter of the Alzheimer’s Association, and a regular participant in the Susan Komen Cancer Survivors Annual Walkathon/Fund.
Scott was recognized at the annual VHCA-VCAL Awards Banquet, held this year in Hot Springs, VA on September 13.
