Employee Health Nurse Named Morris Hospital Fire Starter of the Month
August 22, 2025, MORRIS, IL – To say Morris Hospital Employee Health Nurse Danielle Sibert has a passion for helping others is an understatement. From a young age, she dreamed of becoming a nurse, and for the past decade at Morris Hospital, she has made that dream a reality. Her passion for helping others has continued to positively impact patients and colleagues alike. Known for going above and beyond, Sibert has earned a reputation as a dedicated nurse who consistently puts others first. This month, her commitment to excellence is being recognized as she is named Morris Hospital’s August Fire Starter of the Month.
Kim Smith, Director of Immediate Care and Occupational Medicine at Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers, describes Sibert as a true asset to the organization and as someone whose compassion and dedication shines through in every interaction.
“Danielle is an excellent employee who is always looking for ways to make our organization better,” says Smith. “She is passionate about her role and takes it seriously. Her ability to actively listen to others and build relationships with our employees has helped keep our employees healthier and safer.”
Sibert’s path to nursing wasn’t straightforward. After working as a CNA for almost 10 years, the Ottawa resident stepped away from healthcare for a position at a paper supply company. But after welcoming her first two children and leaving that position, she felt the pull back toward her lifelong dream.
“When I left the paper supply job, I knew it was time to refocus and go back to school to become a nurse like I’d always dreamed of,” Sibert says. “It was challenging to return to school as an older student with a family, but helping others is truly my passion. So I took the leap and earned my degree.”
Morris Hospital has been home to Sibert for the past 10 years. Before becoming the Employee Health Nurse, she was a Charge RN at the Morris Hospital Immediate Care on Gore Road in Morris for 8 years. She says she loved the fast pace environment and variety of patients.
“I loved working at the DRC and seeing new patients every day,” she recalls. “Beyond the direct patient interactions, I was incredibly close with the staff—and we still get together to this day.”
In nominating Sibert, previous Fire Starter winner Joanna Mueller praised her leadership and commitment to helping others.
“Danielle sets a high example for the way we should all treat others. She shows incredible compassion and care for every employee who seeks her guidance and is always willing to help anyone in need. She’s a team player who brings positivity and an open mind to every interaction. We’re lucky to have her!”
For Sibert, the best part of her job is simple: helping others. “I’m so lucky to do something I love every single day,” she says. “I get to work with amazing people across multiple departments, and I gain so much from those interactions. Morris Hospital has been my home for 10 years, and I’m grateful for the wonderful community I serve.”
In early civilizations, fire starters were individuals who had the important job of keeping the flame alive. With over 1,500 employees, Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers is the largest employer in Grundy County.
# # #
