The Department of Neurological Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine recognized three exceptional colleagues with the quarterly BOLT Award, honoring individuals who exemplify Balanced, Outstanding, Leadership and Teamwork across the neuro units. Recipients are selected for consistently demonstrating strong collaboration and dedication to patients and teammates alike.
This quarter’s recipients are Ryley Marston and Nicole Doyle, physician assistants in inpatient neurosurgery, and Dr. Lily McLaughlin, PGY-2 neurosurgery resident. Each was selected for their flexibility, professionalism and commitment to delivering seamless, high-quality patient care during a period of critical staffing needs.
Stepping Up When It Mattered Most
During a period of significant staffing challenges, all three honorees stepped outside their usual roles to support the service and ensure continuity of care.
Marston demonstrated exceptional flexibility by assisting with neurosurgical consults and adapting quickly to shifting clinical demands. Whether managing urgent consultations or flexing across operating rooms to support immediate surgical needs, she brought a calm, competent presence to every situation. Her team-first mindset helped ensure impressive patient care while providing critical support to colleagues across the service.
Doyle also stepped beyond her typical role, covering neurosurgery consultations that require rapid adaptability, strong clinical judgment and clear communication. She managed a high volume of high-acuity consults with diligence and professionalism, maintaining high standards of care under pressure. Her genuine and caring spirit, paired with clinical excellence, exemplified the department's collaborative culture.
Dr. McLaughlin demonstrated outstanding leadership across all levels of care, including the ICU, floor and stepdown units. She consistently manages a large inpatient census on a demanding surgical service while maintaining strong clinical decision-making in high-acuity and rapidly evolving situations. Known for her clear communication and collaborative approach, she thoughtfully incorporates physician assistant input and advocates for teamwork that enhances workflows and patient outcomes.
Lily McLaughlin, MD PGY-2 Resident
Living the BOLT Spirit
Each honoree embodies the BOLT spirit in a distinct way: Marston for her calm and competent approach, Doyle for her genuine and caring presence, and Dr. McLaughlin for her confident, empathetic leadership.
Beyond the award itself, the department celebrates recipients with a certificate and, when possible, a surprise team huddle complete with flowers, balloons or snacks to recognize their contributions in real time.
The Department of Neurological Surgery is grateful for the dedication, flexibility and teamwork demonstrated by this quarter’s BOLT Award recipients. Their commitment to excellence reflects the very best of patient-centered care at Weill Cornell Medicine.