INF 40 Under 40 Awardee: Jessica Huhn

Jessica Huhn’s nursing story is one of learning, overcoming challenges, and stepping confidently into leadership roles. Her path began at Elgin Community College, where she earned her Associate in Applied Science in Nursing in 2016. She quickly began her career at Advocate Sherman Hospital on the Cardiac Care Unit, caring for patients recovering from post-cardiac interventions, myocardial infarctions, and acute cardiac events. Driven by a love for learning, Jessica pursued her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through Aspen University, completing the degree in 2021. After 4.5 years at Sherman, she sought to expand her skill set and transferred to the ICU at Advocate Condell Medical Center starting on March 15, 2020, in the midst of the pandemic.

Building Expertise in Critical Care and Leadership

Though her transition to the ICU came during one of healthcare’s most challenging times, Jessica found her calling in critical care. Over her five years in the ICU, she has become a seasoned nurse and preceptor, holding certifications as a Trauma Nurse Specialist (TNS) and Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN). Beyond the bedside, Jessica has emerged as a leader in nursing practice councils. From 2022–2024, she served as chair of the Nursing Practice Council at Condell and co-chair of the Midwest Nursing Practice Council for Advocate Health (formerly Advocate Aurora Health). In January 2024, she stepped into her current role as Chair of Nursing Practice for the Illinois/Wisconsin Division of Advocate Health.

Advocating for Nurses, Empowering the Profession

Jessica is deeply committed to empowering nurses to take ownership of their practice and advocate for their profession. “There is power in numbers,” Jessica shares. “Nurses are one of the strongest communities out there, and when we speak up together, we can shape the future of healthcare.”

The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly honors Jessica Huhn as a 2025 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader for her dedication to critical care, professional development, and elevating the voice of nurses across Illinois and Wisconsin.

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