Empowering Excellence: How Memorial’s ODE Team Supports Our Workforce

At Memorial, delivering exceptional patient care starts with an empowered, knowledgeable team. That’s where Organizational Development & Excellence (ODE) comes in.
“ODE is a key function of the HR Division, focused on talent development and workforce readiness,” said Cassandra Brown, MBA, CLP, Director of Organizational Development & Excellence. “Our mission is to enhance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of Memorial’s employees and Medical Staff.”
What Does ODE Do?
The ODE team touches every part of the Memorial workforce, from new employee orientation to clinical competency training, leadership development, and student programs. They assess needs, design solutions, and deliver training through a variety of methods to meet Memorial’s evolving standards and goals.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Delivering training that supports staff competency and patient education
- Designing development programs tailored to role-specific needs
- Conducting assessments in collaboration with leadership
- Facilitating education through in-person, virtual, and e-learning platforms
- Measuring impact through participant feedback and program effectiveness reviews
- Partnering with educational institutions and governmental entities to introduce and prepare individuals for careers in healthcare
Programs That Power the Team
ODE supports Memorial employees and Medical Staff with a broad array of learning opportunities designed to improve care, build careers, and support long-term success.
Some of their cornerstone programs include:
- Electronic Health Record training for nurses, providers, students, and residents
- Continuing education including ANCC-approved CNE and CME offerings
- Workforce development initiatives such as career fairs, job shadowing, military programs, and resume assistance
- Student academic affiliations with clinical placements for nursing and allied health students
- Role-specific training for clinical and non-clinical employees
- Staff development courses in basic computer skills, Microsoft Office, TB certification, and more
Learning Through Innovation – The Skills Lab
ODE’s state-of-the-art Skills Lab brings real-world scenarios to life for hands-on training.
“The lab is equipped with high-fidelity manikins and equipment typically found in a patient’s room,” said Brown. “This allows us to simulate phlebotomy, trach care, cardiac rhythms, defibrillation, and more.”
Self-guided stations are also available for certifications such as:
- BLS (Basic Life Support)
- ALS (Adult Life Support)
- PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)
Developing Leaders, Supporting Retention
ODE is also instrumental in growing future leaders and keeping Memorial team members engaged and fulfilled.
“The HR Division’s focus is DARE — Develop, Attract, Retain, and Engage,” Brown explained. “When employees have access to training and career development, they feel more motivated, confident, and connected to their work.”
Programs like New Leader Orientation, Emerging Leaders, and Leadership Development provide targeted support for current and aspiring leaders. Looking ahead, ODE is preparing to revamp these programs to better support leaders across the organization.
A Commitment to Excellence
ODE doesn’t just train staff. This team ensures Memorial stays current with healthcare trends and regulatory best practices.
“We actively engage in continuous learning, network with professional organizations, and attend conferences to bring back the most relevant information,” said Brown. “We also work closely with the Mississippi Nurses Foundation to ensure our CEUs are evidence-based and high-quality.”
Why It Matters
Whether it’s onboarding a new nurse, supporting a student intern, or preparing a leader for the future, the ODE team plays a vital role in Memorial’s mission to heal, inspire, and transform the health of our community.
“When employees are equipped with the right skills and knowledge,” said Brown, “they not only perform better, but they also feel more valued and invested in Memorial’s success.”