INF 40 Under 40 Awardee: Marita Kametas

Marita Kametas is a family nurse practitioner and nationally recognized leader in advanced practice gastroenterology. Dedicated to improving outcomes for adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Marita serves as the manager for the Advanced Practice Gastroenterology Service at the University of Chicago and as director of the UChicago Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center Advanced Practice Program. Her clinical and educational leadership has transformed care delivery for patients with IBD and set new standards for advanced practice providers (APPs) nationwide.

Champion for IBD Education and Professional Growth

Marita is the visionary behind ChatAPP, an international monthly case series led by APPs for APPs, designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing in the care of patients with IBD. She also pioneered the first APP fellowship program at the University of Chicago, now serving as director of the IBD APP Fellowship, a first of its kind initiative aimed at developing the next generation of experts in gastroenterology care. Her commitment to education doesn’t stop there. Marita volunteers as a mentor for the Crohn’s and Colitis APP Mentorship Program, lectures widely to empower APPs, and champions efforts to democratize IBD education for nurses and providers across the globe.

Advancing Equity and Impact in Healthcare

Marita’s contributions extend beyond clinical and academic leadership. As a member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion National Scientific Advisory Committee, she advocates for inclusive healthcare and ensures underserved populations receive the care and resources they need. Her dedication has earned widespread recognition:

Distinguished APP Award, University of Chicago (2023 & 2024)
National “Rising Star” Recognition, United States National APP Week

Currently pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Public Health (MPH) at Johns Hopkins University, Marita is focusing her research on addressing food insecurity in patients with IBD and improving population health for this community.

Leading with Passion and Vision

Marita Kametas is redefining what it means to lead in gastroenterology nursing. Her vision to democratize access to IBD education for APPs and RNs worldwide reflects her belief that knowledge is key to improving health outcomes for all patients living with IBD.

The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly celebrates Marita Kametas as a 2025 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader for her groundbreaking work in gastroenterology care, education, and advocacy.

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