Leading Through the Power of Connection

Katherine Jaffe, director of nursing for Med Surg (3NS) at Virtua Marlton Hospital, brings a blend of compassion, resilience, and leadership to her role. Prior to her career in healthcare, Katherine joined the United States Peace Corps, where she spent two years living in a rural village in Zambia. There, she led literacy programs, supported HIV/AIDS prevention efforts, and empowered women through business education and a sewing initiative. The biggest lesson she learned is the power of connection. Katherine shared, "No matter what culture you're from or where you're from, people come first and you can make connections with anybody. Even though the community members did not have a lot materially, they connected and found joy and happiness in each other."   This lesson has guided Katherine throughout her nursing career at Virtua. From charge nurse to now nurse director, she has built engaged and compassionate teams. Katherine embodies Virtua's Culture of WE—always seeing the best in others and leading with heart.