Dr. Ebonie Zielinski, DNP, RN

Dr. Ebonie Zielinski, DNP, RN, is the Assistant Director of Research and Practice Initiatives for the Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC), which administers Illinois’ Title V Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs (CYSHCN) program. She leads statewide efforts to strengthen population health strategies, advance evidence-informed programs, and improve outcomes for Illinois CYSHCN. Her professional work has centered on advancing equitable access to care and strengthening community partnerships to improve outcomes. These experiences have reinforced her belief that thoughtful, evidence-based leadership is essential for shaping programs and policies.

Her current portfolio includes initiatives in complex care management research, program development and evaluation, and workforce development aimed at supporting professionals, specifically nurses who serve CYSHCN. With more than 21 years of experience in acute care and public health, Dr. Zielinski previously worked as a senior research specialist for the Colbert/Williams v. Pritzker consent decree, supporting safe community transitions for individuals with complex medical, psychiatric, and social needs.

She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in Advanced Population Health Nursing from the University of Illinois Chicago in 2022. Dr. Zielinski is also dedicated to mentorship and advocacy, ending her tenure as the treasurer and former health policy liaison for the Black Nurses Association of Central Illinois. She remains committed to actively mentoring first-generation college students and uplifting others, recognizing the pivotal role her own mentors have had along her journey.