Advancing Nursing Through Evidence and Empathy For Dr. Boyer, nursing represents the powerful intersection of clinical expertise, advocacy, and human connection. Drawn to the profession for its ability to lead with both evidence and empathy, Dr. Boyer has consistently pursued opportunities that extend beyond the bedside engaging in education, quality improvement, scholarship, and implementation science…
NextGen Ambassador Spotlight: Melissa Garcia, BSN, RN
A Calling Rooted in Compassion For Melissa Garcia, nursing has always been more than a career, it is a calling rooted in service, empathy, and purpose. Inspired from a young age to help others through difficult moments, Melissa describes nursing as an opportunity to be “someone’s sunshine on their worst day.” Being named a 2025…
Nominations Open for the 2026 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader Awards
The Illinois Nurses Foundation invites nominations for the 2026 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader Awards. This marks the 12th year of recognizing Illinois nurses under age 40 who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and meaningful impact in nursing practice, education, research, and administration. These awards honor nurses who extend their influence beyond daily responsibilities. Honorees improve…
Nurses PAC is Proud to Endorse Nurses Running for Elected Office in Illinois
Nurses PAC is proud to endorse the following nurses running for elected office in Illinois. These candidates bring clinical expertise, leadership, and a commitment to public service. We are also expanding our efforts to educate nurses on running for office and to encourage every nurse in Illinois to vote in this election cycle. Jennifer…
Illinois Nurses Foundation Seeks Volunteers
Strengthening Illinois Nursing Leadership: Spotlight on Stephanie Mendoza
ANA-Illinois is proud to highlight Stephanie Mendoza, DNP, MSN, RN, RNC-OB, C-EFM whose passion for advocacy, community impact, and elevating the nursing voice guides her service as an ANA-Illinois Assembly Representative. Dr. Mendoza’s leadership is grounded in compassion and fueled by a deep commitment to ensuring nurses across Illinois are heard locally, statewide, and nationally.…
Strengthening Illinois Nursing Leadership: Spotlight on Gloria Barrera
ANA-Illinois is proud to highlight Gloria E. Barrera, MSN, RN, PEL-CSN, now serving her second term as Secretary of the ANA-Illinois Board. A public health nurse, educator, and longtime champion for school and community health, Gloria brings nearly two decades of experience and purposeful leadership to her role. Her passion for elevating nurses’ voices especially…
Strengthening Illinois Nursing Leadership: Spotlight on Casey Green
ANA-Illinois is proud to welcome Casey Green, MSN, RN, CCRN-CMC, CTRN, CFRN, CEN, TCRN, CPEN, CNRN, NRP, to the ANA-Illinois Board of Directors. A critical care nurse and nurse anesthesia resident whose passion for clinical excellence, education, and healthcare advocacy drives her leadership. Casey brings a thoughtful, grounded perspective shaped by years of frontline experience…
Strengthening Illinois Nursing Leadership: Spotlight on Jameszetta James
ANA-Illinois is proud to introduce Jameszetta James,EdD, MJ, MSN, RN, ASC-BC, ACM-RN, elected to serve as the ANA-Illinois Membership Assembly Representative for the next two years. Jameszetta is an inspiring nurse leader whose passion, vision, and advocacy are deeply rooted in transforming the future of nursing. With a clear voice and a bold commitment to…
Strengthening Illinois Nursing Leadership: Spotlight on Feyi Sangoleye
ANA-Illinois is proud to introduce Feyi Sangoleye, PhD, RN, newly elected member of the ANA-Illinois Nominations Committee. A passionate advocate for equity, representation, and professional development, Feyi brings purpose and clarity to her leadership. Her commitment to uplifting diverse voices and building pathways for emerging nurse leaders strengthens the foundation of ANA-Illinois and the future…
