May's J.E.D.I. Champion is Sue Pugh, nursing recruitment coordinator and active member of LifeBridge Health's Black Culture Employee Resource Group. Sue has worked tirelessly to help establish and maintain the Black Culture Employee Resource Group's Community Farmers Market at Sinai Hospital, which serves as both a much-needed source of fresh produce in an area that is a food desert and an outlet for hot meals and shopping accessible for team members and the community alike. Ayesha Fowler, co-chair of the Black Culture Employee Resource Group, had high praise for Sue's efforts: "Sue Pugh is a true J.E.D.I. Champion. As the chair of the advocacy subgroup Sue uses her remarkable talents and skills to fuel BCERG mutual efforts. Sue spearheaded the farmers markets at Sinai hospital to bring food trucks and produce to employees and the community."
Q1. How long have you been with LifeBridge Health and what is your current role?
A:I have been with Sinai for 12 years. My present role is nursing
recruitment coordinator at Sinai Hospital.
Q2. You bring so much passion to the work you do…what motivates you?
A: When Black Lives Matter became a national initiative, I looked inwardly at my life and asked myself if I was white privileged. I realized that despite believing that all people are created equal my lack of advocacy or silence was not enough. I decided I needed to be part of the solution. It has been an amazing journey that continues today.
Q3. As an active member of the Black Culture Employee Resource Group and a nursing recruitment coordinator, what are some of your aspirations for the LifeBridge Health Community?
A: I would love to see Sinai as a leader in the community for bridging the gap between those that have and those who don’t have access to technology as it relates to hiring. It is challenging for those who do not have easy access to a computer to apply for a position due to the application process being fully automated. I would also like to see our organization grow in the number of black leaders to help provide inspiration and mentors of color to demonstrate that professional growth is available to all.
Q4. Since starting at LifeBridge Health, what have you found most rewarding?
A: The patients and people I have met. I have met so many wonderful people that have enhanced my life and knowledge I have loved being able to help improve the care we provide, especially for the stroke program in my prior role as a neurological clinical nurse specialist/ stroke coordinator. Caring for people is what life is about for me.