LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Daphne Walker

Position: Director of Health Services
School: Jefferson Parish School Board
School District: Jefferson Parish School Board
City, State: Harvey, LA

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Music that Describes Daphne


Daphne Walker was nominated by her colleague, Stacey Chalin.

Ms. Walker has worked with children since she became a nurse in 1994. She has been a devoted school nurse for over 20 years. She's currently the director of health services for Jefferson Parish Schools, the largest school system in Louisiana. Ms. Walker is responsible for the health and safety of 7,000+ staff members and 50,000+ students in 75 schools. She also supervises 60+ school nurses.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, her demanding and stressful job has become even more challenging. Ms. Walker always maintains a positive attitude and never complains. She is a good listener who welcomes feedback and maintains an "open door" policy. She has high expectations of her nurses and inspires them to provide excellent care and become leaders. Ms. Walker also serves as the secretary of LSNO, the professional organization for school nurses in Louisiana. The health and safety of her staff and students is always her number one priority.

"I feel blessed to work as her nurse coordinator," said Chalin. 

Comments (4)

Ena Fitzmorris Posted over a year ago

Congratulations Daphne!! A well deserved nomination!! Good Luck!!

Darrielle Posted over a year ago

Daphne is an amazing Director! It is an honor to work with her. She is so supportive of her nurses and support staff. She is very busy but never rushes us off the phone. She guides us when we need it. Without her help I'm not sure if I would be as successful as a school nurse. She is unmatched!!

Keirstin Charles Posted over a year ago

Daphne is very deserving of this award. I could not imagine a better Nursing Director during COVID. She has a more than impressive work load and can still make time to address any concerns as they arise. She is amazing! We are very fortunate to have her here at Jefferson Parish Schools. Best of luck to you Daphne!

Lisa D Castillon Posted over a year ago

Daphne is an incredible leader! She is an advocate for her school nurses and works tirelessly to provide the support and direction that is needed in Health Services, especially during the pandemic. Daphne always makes time to listen and frequently she is my "voice of reason" that I need while dealing with a difficult situation. She truly is a great leader and makes me want to be a better school nurse. I am truly blessed to have her as my director.