News

Pardee's Teammate of the Year 'elevates everyone around her'

Marilyn O'Malley was honored as Teammate of the Year for 2025 at Pardee's annual Teammate Service Appreciation and Recognition Banquet.

By Lightning Reports, Published: October 8, 2026

Marilyn O'Malley, a registered nurse working in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit at Pardee Hospital, was honored as Teammate of the Year for 2025 at the annual Teammate Service Appreciation and Recognition Banquet on Sept. 22, UNC Health Pardee announced on Wednesday. 

O'Malley has been with UNC Health Pardee for 21 years working as a registered nurse in the ICU before joining the PACU team in 2020. As a specialized post-anesthesia nurse, she provides care directly after surgery, providing continuous assessment, monitoring, intervention, and evaluation of patients recovering from anesthesia and procedural sedation. She is able to manage post-anesthesia complications and provide interventions to guide patients safely through the phases of anesthesia recovery. 

“Being recognized for what I love is truly a blessing,” she said. “Throughout my career, I’ve been inspired by incredible colleagues and privileged to care for patients of all ages. I hope I’ve made a positive impact on their lives as they have on mine. Nursing is my passion, and I believe the human touch is a powerful healer. I’m able to provide compassionate care to patients, families, and teammates. Bringing joy, support, and encouragement to others is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.” 

Jennifer White, the perianesthesia director in surgical services, praised O'Malley's value to the medical team and patients they care for.

“Marilyn is more than a skilled clinician; she elevates everyone around her," she said. "She is deeply committed to caring for others and always ready to help, anticipating the needs of both patients and colleagues.

"Her impact extends beyond the bedside. By celebrating milestones and bringing staff together, she fosters a positive, family-like culture where people feel valued and supported. Most importantly, Marilyn never loses sight of our patients. She delivers high-quality, evidence-based care, champions patient safety, shares her expertise, and leads by example.”