Nurse Influencer Award

Geographic Scope: Illinois and beyond (local, regional, or national level)

Program Description:
The Nurse Influencer Award recognizes an exemplary nurse who has influenced the science of nursing practice or care delivery system, a group/community/population (patient or other care providers) sick or well. The award recognizes nurses who contribute to health or its recovery (or to peaceful death) in any care or community setting at any level (local, regional, or national), or the profession of nursing through education, advocacy, policy, or practice.

Definition:
Defined by Merriam Webster, an Influencer (noun): "one who exerts influence, a person who inspires or guides the actions of others."

Eligibility:

• Registered nurse currently practicing in any specialty in the state of Illinois
• Must be an ANA-Illinois member OR must be nominated by an ANA-Illinois member
• Demonstrated evidence of influence over the science of nursing practice or care delivery system, a group/community/population (patient or other care providers) sick or well
• Evidence of contribution to health or its recovery (or to peaceful death) in any care or community setting (at any level: local, regional, or national)
• Evidence of influence on the profession of nursing through education, advocacy, policy, or practice

First Award Winner (2020):
Susan Gonzalez, MHA, MSN, RN, CNML - recognized for her leadership in mentoring bilingual, bicultural Spanish-speaking nurses, advocacy for public policy change, and work with diverse populations including women, infants, and children. Her service includes roles with the National Association of Hispanic Nurses, March of Dimes, Mujeres Latinas en Accion, and medical missions to Puerto Rico.