Ashlee Wright DNP, APRN, CNP is an Advanced Practitioner at Springfield Clinic. She has been nominated for the Illinois Nurses Foundation’s 40 Under 40 Award by Amanda Connoyer for her outstanding contributions to nursing and her community
Ashlee 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 Leader in Advanced Practice Innovation
Ashlee plays a pivotal role in the hospital medicine service line at Springfield Clinic. As the first APP liaison in her department, she took the initiative to standardize onboarding and develop comprehensive educational resources for new APPs. Her efforts have improved departmental morale and reduced turnover, creating a supportive and collaborative environment.
Ashlee also leads monthly advanced practice meetings, facilitating case study discussions and journal reviews that promote evidence-based care among her peers. By staying at the forefront of evidence-based practice guidelines, she ensures that both she and her team provide the highest quality of care for their patients.
Dedication to Mentorship and Education
A passionate mentor, Ashlee guides new APRNs as part of Springfield Clinic’s mentorship program. She supports APPs during their transition into new roles, equipping them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Additionally, she precepts APRN students from local universities who are interested in hospital medicine, sharing her expertise and fostering the next generation of nurse practitioners.
Advocacy and Community Engagement
Ashlee is an advocate for the nursing and APRN profession, actively participating in organizations such as ISAPN and AANP. Through these affiliations, she collaborates with other APRNs, advocates for their roles, and leverages resources to advance her own practice and that of her peers.
Her commitment to community service is equally inspiring. As a member of the Advanced Practice Advisory Council, she helps lead initiatives like the Adopt a Family holiday drive, which provided essential items to 17 individuals in need. She also plays a key role in the council’s community outreach efforts, from organizing volunteer opportunities to spearheading local initiatives.
A Global Perspective on Care
Ashlee’s dedication to healthcare extends beyond her local community. She volunteered on a medical mission trip to Costa Rica, where she provided health screenings, physicals, medical treatments, and vitamins to underserved populations. Her global outreach reflects her belief in equitable healthcare access and her commitment to making a difference, both locally and globally.
Ashlee Wright: A True Advocate for Nursing
Amanda Connoyer, Ashlee’s nominator, describes her as “passionate, kind, and a tireless advocate for her colleagues, her patients, and the nursing profession.” Ashlee’s leadership has not only enhanced patient care but also strengthened the role of APRNs within her organization and community.
Congratulations to Ashlee Wright and Springfield Clinic 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 Ashlee who have made a lasting impact in the healthcare industry.
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