At Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, we could not be successful without the exceptional leaders who guide our teams. Nurse Managers Jennifer Barber and Tessa Dooley balance leadership with motherhood, each bringing unique experiences and a deep passion for patient care. Both are moms to the adorable children featured in our HUSH campaign (Help Us Support Healing), which launched in November 2023, to help remind visitors of our quiet hours—vital for patient recovery.
Jen Barber, Nurse Manager of 6A, the Orthopedic/Trauma Center, knew from a young age that she wanted to be a nurse. Raised in a military family, she moved frequently but always felt called to care. After graduating with her BSN from FSU in 2008, she began her career at TMH, starting as a graduate nurse on 6A. Drawn most to orthopedics, it was in this unit where Jen experienced the teamwork that would shape her leadership style. Rising from preceptor to charge nurse, assistant nurse manager, and finally nurse manager in 2021, Jen enjoys cultivating an environment that empowers new nurses to build their skills and expertise. “The best part of my job is getting to witness my team grow and become successful. I love seeing nurses in med-surg grow from timid new grads to confident charge nurses,” Jen shared. Outside of work, she’s a proud mom to Gavin, 7, who loves being “famous” for his picture on the HUSH sign.
Tessa Dooley, Nurse Manager of 7A, the Angie Deeb Cancer Unit, brought 15 years of experience as a hospice nurse to her role at TMH. Originally from Seattle, she moved to Tallahassee with her family during the pandemic. She joined TMH in 2023, excited for the level of support offered by such a large organization. Tessa is passionate about compassionate care and leadership, inspired by her hospice background and her role in opening the Big Bend Inpatient Hospice Unit. “The community and culture fit my vision for the mission and the care I have for my patients,” she stated. At home, Tessa and her husband Michael, also a dedicated nurse at TMH in our CVMSICU, raise their two daughters, Calla, 11, and Cora, 6. Both girls have been enjoying the rumors at the school playground that they are famous. Their parents equally enjoy seeing their faces on the HUSH signs. “I love getting to see them when I’m at work. They’re always just around the corner,” Tessa stated.
Jen and Tessa exemplify the balance of leadership, compassion, and family. As nurse managers, they guide their teams with empathy and dedication, making a difference every day. We’re lucky to have them at TMH, where they inspire us all to lead with purpose and heart.