Editor's note: The other day, CCMH Community Relations Director Karen
Clarke sat down with Josie LeMaster to learn more about her, and why she
recently accepted a position with CCMH's Maternal Child Department.
New Maternal Child Manager Josie LeMaster took horseback riding lessons
while in her previous position in Colorado Springs, Colo. According to
Josie, being a confident rider requires establishing a connection with
the horse. She sees her new position in terms of relationships, too. Josie
has spent the first few weeks with the staff, getting to know them and
learning how the unit works. She believes in leading by example, using
the coaching and mentoring techniques she learned from those who were
her mentors.
“It’s always healthy to walk in someone else’s shoes,”
said Josie, “You get a whole different perspective. We all know
that change is a part of healthcare,” said Josie.
Josie grew up in Baltimore, Md., but her most recent position was as the
Clinical Nurse Manager of the
Mother-Baby and Lactation Center at Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs. Her first experience with the Western United States was a trip to San
Diego for the
American Heart Association. She has continued her affiliation with AHA as a regional faculty member,
and also consults for a company called Advanced Care, which provides healthcare
education and training programs.
One of Josie’s first priorities is to begin a cross training program
for her staff.
“I’m passionate about building bridges and teambuilding,”
said Josie. “I was impressed that CCMH seemed to embrace and practice
my philosophy of leadership through education and coaching.”
She also hopes to continue her involvement with teaching in some fashion.
“I had a fear of talking in front of people,” said Josie. “When
the opportunity to teach came along, I dived right in.”
Josie’s husband Robert has worked in business of professional cleaning,
and Josie enjoys that he is now in the process of unpacking their new
home. A self-professed workaholic, faith and family are very important
values to her.
“It took us awhile to get the right person for Maternal Child services,
and Josie is that person,” said Anne Raga, Director of Nursing.
“She is current in her clinical knowledge, and her faculty experience
can support our staff development needs. Please welcome her to CCMH.”