Savannah Staten
As a program coordinator in the NICU, I check in with families to get their feedback on how they are being included in their child's NICU stay. I take that feedback and use it to focus on what programs can be implemented to build up families' resiliency, knowing they're going through challenging times and making sure that with each challenge, they're able to go through it a little bit better and come out on the other side still feeling strong. I lead the implementation, development, and evaluation of our Family Dinner Program, where we provide dinners to families once a week and give them a chance to connect with one another in our family lounge. I also run a parent-to-parent matching program where I connect former NICU families with current NICU families, because there's nothing like lived experience to really bring people together to feel supported. Additionally, I supervise 50-plus volunteers for our Cuddler program, where volunteers come in and hold infants but also provide whatever developmental support is right for that infant, which can look different for a baby going through withdrawal compared to a baby that was born early. I also do quality improvement initiatives focused on family-centered care, making sure that whatever's going on with our patient satisfaction surveys, I take that feedback to do QI work.
• Doula
• Bachelor's in English with minor in Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies from NC State (2021)
• Master's in Public Health with concentration in Maternal and Child Health Policy and Leadership from University of Alabama at Birmingham (in progress
• Expected August 2025)
• North Carolina March of Dimes Young Professionals Board
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say truly just follow your passion. It may be difficult at times, but knowing that you have done what fills your cup is worth pursuing.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
What I love the most is the ability to acknowledge the way that someone's whole personhood shows up during challenging times. I love that I can honor a family's strengths and show that back to them, and reflect that back to them when sometimes they can't see it and can only see all the things going on that are difficult. I love sharing with families that I am able to see the love that they have for their child and let them know that that is seen, and that that is valued, and I recognize them as a person. My biggest accomplishment is knowing that I have made a difference in making sure that people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Locations
March of Dimes NC
211 Basalt Place, Apartment 204, NC 27571