Michelle Salazar-Rodriguez, MSN RN
Michelle Salazar-Rodriguez, MSN, RN, is a seasoned nursing professional with extensive experience in informal leadership, patient care, and process improvement within the Veterans Affairs healthcare system. Currently serving as the Bed Manager and Patient Flow (Transfer) Coordinator at VA BHHCS, Michelle has dedicated over a decade to enhancing healthcare delivery, ensuring efficient patient flow, developing programs that optimize operational performance, and her dedication to nursing process by being a member and current Chair of the Professional Nurse Practice Subcommittee. Her career reflects a commitment to nursing excellence and advocacy for veterans, emphasizing compassionate, patient-centered care. Throughout her career, Michelle has held a variety of critical roles in nursing and case management, including RN positions at VA BHHCS, Rapid City Regional Hospital, Sturgis Regional Hospital and Littleton Adventist Hospital. She has successfully led initiatives that improve patient outcomes, streamline workflows, and implement innovative care strategies. Her work has been recognized with multiple awards, including the Nurses Organization of Veterans Affairs (NOVA) Award, Nursing Excellence Award, South Dakota Nurses Association state award winner, and second place in the VISN 23 Network Star Award for process improvement, underscoring her dedication to both leadership and frontline nursing. Michelle earned her Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on Leadership and Management from Western Governors University, following a BSN from Aspen University and an ADN from the University of South Dakota. She combines her clinical expertise with strategic leadership skills, fostering team development, mentorship, and advocacy for veteran care. Guided by integrity, communication, and compassion, Michelle continues to make a significant impact in nursing leadership while supporting her colleagues and the communities she serves. In January 2026, she will stepping into the President position for NOVA.
• Registered Nurse
• MSN
• Western Governors University – Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Leadership and Management
• Aspen University – Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
• University of South Dakota – Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
• Nursing Excellence Award for Veterans, 2016
• NOVA Nursing Excellence Award
• South Dakota Nursing Association State Award
• VISN 23 2nd place Network Star Award.
• American Nurses Association
• Advocating for Veterans
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for helping others and their families, particularly veterans. Being deeply involved in their care and advocating for their needs has been the driving force behind my career.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is the power of believing in myself. Initially, I doubted my ability to become a nurse, but by starting as a CNA and excelling in providing compassionate care, I proved to myself that I could succeed. That experience gave me the confidence and foundation to pursue and achieve my nursing goals.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Always put people first. Prioritizing the well-being and care of patients over business or administrative pressures will guide you to make meaningful, impactful decisions in your career.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Empathy is the cornerstone of both my professional and personal life. Understanding and caring for the experiences and needs of patients allows me to provide meaningful, compassionate care every day.