Winnie Mele

Winnie Mele is director of perioperative services at Plainview Hospital, one of Northwell Health’s 21 hospitals. Northwell is the largest employer in New York State and was the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mele is one of 18 members of the Northwell Health Nurse Choir, launched in fall 2021 as a respite from the pandemic. After being seen on social media, the choir was invited to audition for “America’s Got Talent,” receiving Howie Mandel’s coveted golden buzzer and advancing to the next round. The choir sang four songs during the show and finished in the top 10. They have sung at the White House, Madison Square Garden, Carnegie Hall, and many other venues across the country. Their message is one of hope, joy, and resiliency for nurses and all who braved the pandemic.