Employee Spotlight- Jonelle Lee

Interview conducted by: Betty Coutts, Specialist

An employee of Vital Decisions since its inception, Jonelle has served in several capacities in the organization. Jonelle and her family had to make medical decisions for her grandmother who had a stroke, could not communicate, and did not have an advance directive. Working at Vital Decisions helped Jonelle realize her passion for working with databases and informatics and made the switch from the nursing path she was on. She has grown professionally and continued her education while working here.

☀ What brought you to Vital Decisions?

I’ve always worked in healthcare. I worked at the front desk in a nursing home, and was a Certified Nursing Assistant for several years. I liked the mission at Vital Decisions and took the job as Office Coordinator while I was finishing nursing school. I decided to stay with the organization and not to pursue nursing.

☀ What makes Vital Decisions different than other organizations you’ve been a part of?

The cohesiveness and feeling that it’s more like a family than a business. I love all of my coworkers. I’ve always felt supported by my supervisors, no matter what issue I was having. They’ve always backed me up. I always feel like I have someone to talk to at work. The support I receive, and the opportunity for growth make Vital Decisions stand out from other places I’ve worked. I’ve been promoted several times. After I was Office Coordinator I became Systems Coordinator, then Systems Administrator, and now I’m the CRM Manager in the Informatics Department.

☀ What’s been your biggest accomplishment in your career?

Going back to school. While at Vital Decisions I’ve obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems from Rowan University. I’m now finishing my Master’s in Computing and Informatics, while raising my 4 year old daughter and working full time. I wanted to grow and learn, and I’ve always liked a challenge. I wanted to show my daughter that it is possible.

☀ What’s a lesson you feel you’ve learned in working at Vital Decisions?

Overall I’ve learned it’s okay to speak up. Advocate for yourself. Vital Decisions wants to
hear what we have to say as employees.

Sheena Desai, Marketing Manager

“Jonelle’s work ethic is one I strive to have. Whenever I see her in our Edison office, she brings with her such a bright light of positivity! I don’t know what we’d do without such a great team mate!”

“Jonelle is a true gem. Whether it’s to help you through a mistake or to fill your day with a quick laugh, she’s there to lend a hand. I have truly enjoyed getting to know and work with her over the years!”

Kayleen Oliver, Specialist

Will Soto, User Support Manager

“Jonelle is so motivational. She’s not only a hardworking employee, supermom, and a great listener, she’s also always looking
to grow. She’s either in school or tackling a home project she’s never done before. I not only admire her energy, but I admire her passion behind what she does.”

“Jonelle is a gift to our organization. Over the years, she has evolved with the organization, and has met the changing needs with the same agile, flexible, “can do” approach that makes her a winning team mate. She is respected by all.”

Tracy Brubaker, COO

Liz Tornari, Specialist

“Jonelle has worn many hats during her career at Vital Decisions. She is kind, organized and a team player. Jonelle has been able to help me be successful in my role as a Specialist. She makes this job run smoothly. We are lucky to have her!”