When Shay Hurley began her career as an EVS technician, then called a housekeeper, she focused on one thing: doing her job with excellence.
“I started my career as an EVS technician, focused on doing my job with excellence,” Shay said. “The job seemed pretty simple at first, but I reminded myself, ‘Hey, this is the hospital,’ and I took pride in the details.”
That mindset shaped her path. Shay quickly recognized that every role in healthcare directly impacts patient safety and the overall patient experience. Rather than limiting herself to assigned duties, she asked questions, took on additional responsibilities, and supported her team, even without a leadership title.
“Leadership was never my goal,” she said. “I simply wanted to go beyond my assigned duties, remain open to feedback, and continue growing.”
Through mentorship, especially from her former director, and with the support of Chad Waldron, Director of Operations, Shay steadily progressed into leadership roles and eventually became a director.
“Shay’s journey is a testament to her work ethic and commitment to this organization,” Waldron said. “She earned every opportunity by consistently showing up, leading well, and never losing sight of where she started.”
Shay credits her advancement to consistency, reliability, and a willingness to learn.
“I made it a habit to show up prepared, stay solution-focused, and maintain a positive attitude even during challenges,” she said. “I moved away from the mindset of saying, ‘I’m just a housekeeper,’ because there is no ‘just’ in what we do.”
She focused on understanding not only what needed to be done, but why it mattered. By building strong relationships across departments and actively seeking feedback, she remained coachable and adaptable as her responsibilities grew.
Starting on the front lines continues to shape her leadership today.
“I understand the physical and emotional demands of the work because I’ve done it myself,” Shay said. “That experience keeps me grounded and empathetic.”
She prioritizes being visible, accessible, and supportive, practicing servant leadership by removing barriers and ensuring her team has the tools they need to succeed.
For Shay, leadership means being a voice for employees and honoring every role within the organization. “I never forget where I started, and that perspective guides my decisions,” she said.
During Black History Month, Shay reflects on the resilience and excellence of those who paved the way before her.
“Professionally, Black History Month represents responsibility to lead with integrity, open doors for others, and create spaces where diversity is valued and every voice is heard,” she said.
Jill McIntyre, Director of Workforce Engagement and Wellbeing, says Shay’s story carries lasting impact.
“Stories like Shay’s matter because they remind us that leadership is not about where you start, but how you grow. We celebrate stories like hers because they inspire the next generation to believe that their beginning does not determine their ceiling.”
Shay offers simple but powerful advice to those just starting out.
“Never underestimate the power of your current position. Master where you are while preparing for where you want to go,” she said. “Growth takes time and effort, but it is possible. I am proof that advancement can happen when preparation meets opportunity.”