In January 2024, Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa (KP SRO) kicked off the Magnet Ambassador Committee with our first-ever “Retreat,” marking the official launch of this important initiative. The retreat brought together 40 enthusiastic participants from across the medical center, including Home Health and the Emergency Department, to learn about KP SRO’s Magnet journey and the crucial role of Magnet Ambassadors. The energy from this meeting was contagious, and soon the committee grew to more than 60 members, representing various disciplines, with nursing at the heart of the work.
During Nurses’ Week, the committee held a successful three-day Magnet Fair, themed “Passport to Sonoma County.” This engaging event allowed members of the hospital care team to participate in games and learn more about the Magnet journey, while traveling through different “destinations.” The fair generated tremendous excitement and deepened appreciation for the incredible journey KP SRO is undertaking toward Magnet recognition.
In July, the committee launched the “Magnet Monday” communication and event series, a weekly initiative open to all employees. These events served as both an educational opportunity and a celebration of how KP SRO exemplifies the Magnet Model components. Highlights included:
- Magnet Town Hall
- Farmer’s Market
- Coffee, Tea, and EBP
- Soaring to New Heights for Professional Development
- Mentoring for Success
- Tea with the CNE
- Día de los Muertos
- And the ever-popular, Puppy Power Hour!
These events not only brought our medical center together but also celebrated the incredible ways KP SRO exemplifies the qualities that make it Magnet-worthy. The enthusiasm and engagement of our team reflects the collective pride and dedication in the pursuit of Magnet recognition.
In November, our team had the incredible honor of hosting a 3-day Magnet Site Visit—truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This visit marked the final step in our four-year journey toward Magnet designation. It was a chance for us to showcase what makes KP SRO not only the best place to work but also the best place to receive care.
The visit was a celebration of our accomplishments, where we shared the story of our journey and highlighted the outstanding work of our interdisciplinary teams, who make a difference every day. It was our opportunity to tell the appraisers why we are deserving of the highest credential a healthcare organization can achieve.
Our medical center was transformed to reflect our “Passport to Sonoma County” theme, capturing the essence of the region with displays of the Redwood Forest, the rolling vineyards, and the Sonoma Coast. We even had hot air balloons. More importantly, this was a moment for our entire team to participate in welcoming the appraisers and showcasing the vibrant culture of KP SRO. It was our chance to WOW the appraisers and give them a first-hand experience of the unique and inspirational environment we’ve built here.
The journey to this point has not been easy. Over the past few years, our team has faced fires, hospital evacuations, and the challenges of COVID-19. Yet, despite these obstacles, we have persevered, coming through each challenge stronger than ever. This resilience is what truly sets us apart, and we were so proud to share our story with the appraisers during this momentous visit.
Following our successful Magnet Site Visit, we now await the results which we expect to receive in early 2025. As we wait, our team continues to celebrate the incredible contributions of all our Magnet Ambassadors and the dedication of the entire KP SRO team. Every step of this journey has been a testament to our collective effort, and we are proud of everything we have accomplished together.