Mrs. Jackie Miller-Adaptive Leadership-Excellence in Leadership and Management Award
Jefferson Health-United States
Author profile
Early Academic Pursuits
Jacqueline Miller, RN, MSN, OCN, embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Allentown College of St. Francis DeSales in 1988. Her commitment to continuous learning led her to earn a Master of Science in Nursing Education from Thomas Edison University in 2019. Armed with a solid educational foundation, Miller has consistently demonstrated her dedication to the field of nursing and oncology.
Professional Endeavors
Miller's illustrious career spans various roles, starting as an Oncology Staff Nurse at Virtua-Memorial, Mt. Holly, NJ. Over the years, she evolved into roles such as Oncology Per Diem Nurse at Cooper Hospital, Camden, NJ, and Weekend Nursing Coordinator at Samaritan Hospice, Marlton, NJ. Her experiences also include serving as an Oncology Nurse Navigator at Lourdes Medical Center and Penn Medicine Virtua Cancer Program, where she coordinated outpatient services and broke down barriers for patients with various types of cancer.
Contributions and Research Focus
A standout achievement in Miller's career is her role as the Enterprise Director of Oncology Navigation Program at Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center-Jefferson Health, where she aligns navigation operations, provides education, and oversees a staff of 30. Notably, she aligns navigation services with the 2022 ONS Oncology Navigation Standards of Professional Practice, showcasing her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Miller's dedication to education is evident in her role as the Manager of the New Jersey CEED Program at Penn Medicine Virtua Cancer Program, where she managed a staff of six, developed cancer screening services, and implemented a mobile mammography program for uninsured residents. Her initiatives resulted in a 500% increase in breast cancer screenings from 2016, demonstrating her impact on community health.
Accolades and Recognition
Jacqueline Miller's contributions have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the numerous awards she has received. The American Cancer Society's National Lane Adams Quality of Life Award in 2019, being a finalist for the Cure Extraordinary Healer Award for Oncology Nursing in 2018, and the Virtua SuperSTAR Dorothy Cox-Fisher Award for Community Service in 2017, among others, highlight her exceptional commitment and impact on the healthcare community.
Impact and Influence on Adaptive leadership
Miller's influence extends beyond her clinical roles. As the Founder of Camp Oasis and Living with Cancer, Take My Hand, she has created platforms to support children with parents diagnosed with cancer. Her role as the President of the South Jersey Chapter Oncology Nursing Society showcases her commitment to fostering collaboration and professional growth within the oncology nursing community.
Adaptive leadership is a dynamic and flexible approach to leadership that emphasizes the ability to navigate and thrive in complex and rapidly changing environments. Unlike traditional leadership models that rely on fixed strategies and hierarchies, adaptive leadership is characterized by its responsiveness to challenges and its focus on fostering resilience and innovation within an organization. Leaders practicing adaptive leadership continually assess the evolving landscape, encourage creative problem-solving, and empower team members to adapt to unforeseen circumstances. This approach recognizes that successful leadership requires the ability to embrace change, learn from failures, and inspire a culture of adaptability, ultimately driving sustained success in today's unpredictable business landscape.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Jacqueline Miller's legacy is defined by her comprehensive knowledge, leadership, and advocacy in the oncology nursing field. As a mentor and educator, she ensures the next generation of nurses is well-equipped to navigate the challenges in oncology care. Her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as her involvement in grant writing and management, positions her as a trailblazer, leaving an enduring impact on cancer care and community health. Looking forward, Miller's future contributions will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of oncology nursing, ensuring compassionate and comprehensive care for all.
Adaptive leadership involves several key principles, including the capacity to mobilize and motivate teams, promote a culture of continuous learning, and effectively manage conflict and ambiguity. Adaptive leaders are adept at balancing stability with the need for agility, enabling their organizations to not only survive but also thrive amid uncertainty. By fostering a culture of adaptability and learning, adaptive leaders create resilient and forward-thinking teams capable of navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and achieving long-term success in a rapidly evolving world.