Mitch Kordzikowski DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a Clinical Assistant Professor/PMHNP at the University of Illinois Chicago. He has been nominated for the Illinois Nurses Foundation’s 40 Under 40 Awards by Cynthia Handrup for his passion for community health, commitment to eliminating healthcare disparities, and dedication to nursing education makes him a true leader in the field.
Mitch has been awarded the 2024 Illinois Nurses foundation 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leaders Award. Designed to highlight young nurses that are making a lasting difference in the healthcare industry, this award celebrates those who shape the future of nursing.
A Diverse and Impactful Career in Psychiatric Nursing
With a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and a Master’s in Business Administration, Dr. Kordzikowski possesses an uncommon mix of clinical and administrative expertise. He holds ANCC certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Executive, enabling him to deliver high-quality psychiatric care and guide institutional improvements.
At UIC’s Mile Square Humboldt Park Health Center, Dr. Kordzikowski provides comprehensive psychiatric care to a diverse patient population, demonstrating his commitment to patient-centered healthcare. His role extends beyond patient care; he has led successful quality improvement initiatives, showcasing his drive to enhance mental health services and patient outcomes.
Shaping the Future of Nursing Through Education and Mentorship
As a Clinical Assistant Professor at UIC, Dr. Kordzikowski plays an integral role in preparing the next generation of nurses. He teaches both pre-licensure and graduate students, developing curriculum and organizing evidence-based materials to ensure students receive a top-tier education. His guidance extends to research mentorship, where he chairs DNP committees and serves as a project faculty mentor, nurturing the growth and professional development of graduate students.
Dr. Kordzikowski’s dedication to nursing education has made a lasting impact. His students benefit from his hands-on, passionate approach to teaching, particularly in the PMHNP program, where he instructs on complex concepts essential for future mental health practitioners.
Leading Research and Policy Initiatives in Mental Health
Dr. Kordzikowski’s commitment to advancing psychiatric nursing is evident through his contributions to research and policy. His study on reducing stress for waitlisted psychiatric outpatients earned first place at the 23rd International Society for Psychiatric & Mental Health Nursing (ISPN) Annual Conference in 2023, highlighting his innovative approach to mental health challenges. His expertise will once again be featured at the 2024 Annual ISPN conference with his presentation, “Navigating Closure: The Art and Science of Termination in Client-Provider Relationships.”
His influence extends into policy advocacy as well. Appointed to the ISPN Policy Committee in 2023, he has co-authored the ISPN Workplace Violence Policy, published in the Archives of Psychiatric Nursing, which addresses the national mental health crisis and champions safe environments for both patients and providers.
Dedication to Excellence in Psychiatric Nursing
Dr. Kordzikowski’s leadership is a beacon for those who work alongside him and the students he mentors. As a Clinical Nurse Consultant II in Adult & Adolescent Psychiatry at UIC, he has shaped policies and championed best practices, significantly impacting patient care standards within his institution. His unwavering commitment to psychiatric nursing, coupled with his active role in shaping national policies, underscores his dedication to improving the field at every level.
Mitch Kordzikowski: an Exemplary Leader in Nursing
Dr. Mitch Kordzikowski’s work exemplifies the values of nursing leadership and innovation. From his transformative role in psychiatric care to his impactful teaching and policy advocacy, he is setting new standards in nursing and mental health. His recent 40 Under 40 recognition is a testament to his remarkable achievements and the inspiration he provides to colleagues and students alike. Dr. Kordzikowski is not only shaping today’s psychiatric nursing practices but is paving the way for the future of mental health care.
Congratulations to Mitch Kordzikowski and the University of Illinois Chicago for this prestigious honor! The Illinois Nurses Foundation 40 Under 40 Award for Emerging Nurse Leaders is proven to open career doors for its recipients. INF is proud to celebrate nurses like Mitch who have made a lasting impact in the healthcare industry.
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