The Nurses Running for Elected Office (NREO) Training Academy, built by nurses for nurses, was launched on January 7, 2023. The six-month training academy provides training and resources for nurses interested in running for elected office at the local, state, and federal levels.

Each year. we will welcome a diverse group of nurses from around the state into the inaugural class of the training academy. The annual Academy will begin in January and will meet virtually the first Saturday of every month through May, with in-person graduation in June.

Sessions will focus on building the skills to develop a clear and cohesive communication strategy necessary for a successful campaign, connect participants with community resources, and provide information on election finance regulations and fundraising dos and don’ts.

Mission and Goals

Our mission is to educate nurses interested in running for office and give them the skills necessary to run for elected office and serve as elected leaders.

We know that nurses recognize the impact on healthcare in all policies when they are at the table. Our goal is to increase the number of nurses seeking and winning elected positions up and down the ballot.

ANA-Illinois President and Nurses Running for Elected Office Founder, Dr. Liz Aquino

“Nurses are well suited to serve in public office due to their understanding of public health, experience advocating for patients and communities, awareness of social determinants of health, strong interpersonal skills, and readiness to take action to serve others. The NREO training academy intends to help support nurses in running for elected office at local, state, and federal levels. If we want to see positive changes in healthcare happen, we must have nurses in roles where decisions are made! The NREO training academy will provide nurses with tools to help them feel more confident in running for elected office. If you want to learn more about what it takes to run for elected office, are considering running for elected office, or have already decided to do so, please apply to participate in our Training Academy.”