How Veteran Lenore Brathwaite uses skills she learned in the U.S. Army at Northwell Health Laboratories

Lenore Brathwaite is a six-year Army Reserves veteran, two years deployed during Desert Storm, and a project manager of operations at Northwell Health Labs.

Lenore gained vital skills in the military that help shaped her civilian career today. In the U.S. Army, she held many roles such as a sergeant, blood transfusion coordinator, and phlebotomy supervisor. She gained experience with communications and leadership, as well as the ability to work under pressure and problem solve.

“The military taught me to handle change and adapt to new situations in a short amount of time,” says Lenore. “My flexibility to adapt to changing environments allows me to stay productive and positive.  As a section sergeant I always had to remain calm and be confident in my leadership decisions for my team.”

Transitioning into healthcare

Lenore’s interest in healthcare sparked when she was in high school and her mother was undergoing chemotherapy treatments. She saw how important it was to be the voice for the patient and to always have empathy and patience.  This is what she practices with her team now as she helps lead projects.

She started her Northwell journey in 2012 as a point of care supervisor at Long Island Jewish Medical Center. This role gave Lenore the opportunity to coach her team to provide quality care. Throughout the years, she has grown her career in hospital laboratory operations. In her current role as a project manager, Lenore coordinates with senior leadership, assists in projects, and prepares financial and quarterly reports. And her clinical laboratory technologist experience enables her to help lead and pitch in to help her team when necessary, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lenore is also a member of Northwell’s veteran-focused Business Employee Resource Group VALOR (Veterans and Allies: Liaisons of Reintegration). Being a part of this group allows her to connect with other members of the military, veterans and their families. “VALOR has great resources to help veterans transition. We are a BERG comprised of fellow veterans from all roles across the organization. Who better to understand the hardship of transitioning from military to civilian status but us,” Lenore says.

Being a part of VALOR provided Lenore with a network of supporters. Her Northwell team members encouraged her to believe in herself and become commander of her post: Hunter Squires Jackson Post 1218 American Legion.

Lenore feels supported, encouraged, and honored at Northwell as a veteran and encourages fellow veterans to explore the limitless opportunities that are offered. “Northwell Health encourages you to jump out on your own. When you finally get the courage to jump out, you feel like you are flying like an eagle.”

Watch the video to learn more about Lenore and find your next mission at Northwell Health. Explore job opportunities.

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