Every nurse has a unique story, and each week we’re proud to spotlight an ANA-Illinois member who is making a meaningful impact on the nursing profession and the communities they serve.
Our Member of the Week series celebrates the diverse experiences, leadership, and dedication of nurses across Illinois. This week, we’re excited to introduce Sharon Timmerman. Learn more about her nursing journey, what inspires her work, the accomplishments she is most proud of, and the advice she’d like to share with fellow nurses and future healthcare leaders.
What are your credentials?
RN, BSN
How long have you been a member of ANA-Illinois?
Since 2019
What inspired you to become a nurse?
My heart has always been to serve others, and yet in the 90’s I found myself in Corporate America, with an edict to serve money. I wanted to serve people and follow my heart, so I began pre-requisite Nursing courses at the local community college at night after my full-time job. 7 years later I am enrolled in an BSN to DNP course which will allow me to practice after passing my Board exam, as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
How long have you been a nurse, and what specialties or areas have you worked in?
8 years
What is one thing you love most about the nursing profession?
Advocating for my patients
What does being a member of ANA-Illinois mean to you?
It means I am a part of the larger Nursing community; I am connected and informed
What is one challenge in healthcare or nursing that you are passionate about improving?
Access and affordability
What advice would you give to nursing students or early-career nurses?
Always know the Rationale. Know why you’re doing it and why everything else is “not the best answer”
What accomplishment in your nursing journey are you most proud of?
International Daisy Award
Outside of nursing, what are some hobbies or things you enjoy doing?
My husband and I love to travel Internationally along with listening to live music and dinner with friends and family.
Finish this sentence: “Nursing is…”
My passion
Thank you, Sharon Timmerman, for your commitment to advancing nursing and improving the health of communities across Illinois. We are proud to recognize you as this week’s ANA-Illinois Member of the Week.
Interested in being featured? If you’d like to be considered for a future Member of the Week feature, we’d love to hear your story. Submit a nomination here!