Meet Armando (Mando) Martinez, MSN, RN, MEDSURG-BC, CMSRN, NE-BC, CNML, a nursing supervisor at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital and adjunct clinical nurse faculty member at Elmhurst University. Mando’s nursing story is one of family, dedication, and a philosophy of personal connection. This deep connection is what inspired him to not only pursue nursing but also his Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Pennsylvania.
From Caring for Family to Caring for the World
As a first-generation college student in his family, Mando has felt a sense of responsibility that has motivated him throughout his life. Growing up, Mando was a caretaker for his mother, who suffered from COPD and mental health struggles. Her health issues had his family in and out of hospitals his whole childhood, and despite the hardship that he faced, Mando found inspiration for what he wanted to do someday. 
“Because of that journey and going through those struggles with my mom and the rest of my family, it made sense for me to go into nursing.”
Mando’s earliest healthcare experience was volunteering at Advocate Sherman Hospital. He loved it so much that it led him to complete his undergraduate studies at Elgin Community College (ECC) and The University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). Mando’s journey into healthcare has been a steady, one-step-at-a-time process. He has let one opportunity lead him to the next. After completing his bachelor’s degree from UIC, he went on to complete his Master of Science in nursing and healthcare leadership from Duke University School of Nursing. Currently, Mando is finishing the process of getting his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Executive Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing.
“I have always believed that despite the challenges that my family and I went through, I can still make a difference, not only in my own life but also in other people’s lives.”
Remembering that we are all Human
Mando started his career at the Mayo Clinic, where an internship led to a full-time job after his graduation in 2016. There, he was able to build important, close relationships with the hospital’s staff and leadership. These relationships turned into a mentorship experience for Mando, filling his early work life with opportunities that he may not have had otherwise. 
One of the important things that Mando learned, and passes on to his students today, is the knowledge that there is a human being behind the diagnosis. So often, in the busyness of a hospital, healthcare providers can forget that a patient is more than a diagnosis. There is a person who is scared, hopeful, or hurting sitting on the hospital bed. Mando stresses the importance of keeping that in mind.
“Healthcare is a business, but at the end of the day, these are people behind their diagnosis.”
Find Your Passion and Follow It – Mando’s Advice
To those entering the nursing field, Mando advises patience and purpose. “Understand why you’re doing what you’re doing, and let that guide you.”
Nursing can be demanding, and Mando believes in taking the time to appreciate the journey and the lessons it offers. His advice is to seek fulfillment in every interaction and to remain open to learning and growth.
Mando Martinez’s journey through nursing is a powerful story of overcoming personal challenges to inspire and lead others. His imminent completion of his DNP is not just a personal achievement but a stepping stone to greater contributions to the field of nursing and healthcare leadership. For those inspired by his story, Mando encourages involvement in organizations like ANA-Illinois, where collective efforts can lead to significant advancements in nursing practice and patient care.
Being Present as a Leader
Mando serves on the ANA-Illinois board of directors, working to shed light on how ANA benefits nurses and patients. Mando not only promotes ANA-Illinois to nurses, but also on social media and his nursing students. His goal is to reach as many people as possible to educate them about the benefits of joining a nursing organization.
“Leadership is not just a role but a commitment to influence change and inspire growth.”
Promoting ANA-Illinois events is a big part of Mando’s effort to boost engagement within the nursing community. He encourages everyone to attend educational events and join marches and demonstrations to support legislative policy changes. He also believes in being present as a leader. Showing your support for what you are promoting by actively participating and engaging with members. Mando Martinez is not just shaping his future, but also the future of nursing, one patient, and one nurse at a time.
ANA-Illinois is dedicated to supporting and advocating for nurses across Illinois. Join us in the effort to build a brighter future for nurses! Become a member today!
