Samantha MaragnanoPi Lambda - University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Registered Nurse, Erlanger Health System
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most?Community
Tell us about a defining moment in your career so far – how did it impact your future and what did you learn from it?
One of the most defining moments in my career was working in the COVID-19 ICU during the height of the pandemic. Caring for critically ill patients during such an uncertain and emotionally demanding time challenged me in ways I never expected. Patients were isolated from their families, so I often became their primary source of comfort, encouragement and human connection. Holding a patient’s hand, facilitating final video calls with loved ones, or simply being present during difficult moments reinforced that nursing is far more than clinical skills—it’s about compassion and humanity. My experience profoundly shaped the kind of nurse and leader I strive to be.
What advice would you give Delta Zeta sisters pursuing leadership roles in your field?
Leadership in nursing is about much more than holding a title—it’s about serving others with integrity, compassion and confidence. My advice to Delta Zeta sisters pursuing leadership roles is to embrace every opportunity to learn, even when it feels challenging. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship and step outside your comfort zone because growth happens when you’re willing to take on new responsibilities.
How has being a Delta Zeta influenced your professional journey or approach to leadership?
Being a Delta Zeta has shaped my professional journey by reinforcing the importance of service, leadership and lifelong sisterhood. Through my experiences in Delta Zeta, I learned that effective leadership is rooted in empathy, collaboration and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed. Those lessons have carried directly into my nursing career, where teamwork, communication and compassion are essential every day.
