New Maternal Child Manager Takes the Reins

Editor's note: The other day, CCMH Community Relations Director Karen Clarke sat down with Josie LeMaster to learn more about her, and why she recently accepted a position with CCMH's Maternal Child Department.

New Maternal Child Manager Josie LeMaster took horseback riding lessons while in her previous position in Colorado Springs, Colo. According to Josie, being a confident rider requires establishing a connection with the horse. She sees her new position in terms of relationships, too. Josie has spent the first few weeks with the staff, getting to know them and learning how the unit works. She believes in leading by example, using the coaching and mentoring techniques she learned from those who were her mentors.

“It’s always healthy to walk in someone else’s shoes,” said Josie, “You get a whole different perspective. We all know that change is a part of healthcare,” said Josie.

Josie grew up in Baltimore, Md., but her most recent position was as the Clinical Nurse Manager of the Mother-Baby and Lactation Center at Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs. Her first experience with the Western United States was a trip to San Diego for the American Heart Association. She has continued her affiliation with AHA as a regional faculty member, and also consults for a company called Advanced Care, which provides healthcare education and training programs.

One of Josie’s first priorities is to begin a cross training program for her staff.

“I’m passionate about building bridges and teambuilding,” said Josie. “I was impressed that CCMH seemed to embrace and practice my philosophy of leadership through education and coaching.”

She also hopes to continue her involvement with teaching in some fashion.

“I had a fear of talking in front of people,” said Josie. “When the opportunity to teach came along, I dived right in.”

Josie’s husband Robert has worked in business of professional cleaning, and Josie enjoys that he is now in the process of unpacking their new home. A self-professed workaholic, faith and family are very important values to her.

“It took us awhile to get the right person for Maternal Child services, and Josie is that person,” said Anne Raga, Director of Nursing. “She is current in her clinical knowledge, and her faculty experience can support our staff development needs. Please welcome her to CCMH.”