INF 40 Under 40 Awardee: Whitney Trevino

For Whitney Trevino, nursing has always been about making a meaningful difference in people’s lives through compassion and evidence-based care. Her journey began at Prairie State College in Chicago Heights, Illinois, where she earned her Associate Degree in Nursing before beginning her career at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. Over the last sixteen years, Whitney has built her career at Riverside, spending ten years at the bedside on the Medical-Pediatric Unit. These formative years gave her a deep understanding of both the patient and staff experience and solidified her commitment to delivering exceptional care.

Growing Into Leadership and Finding Purpose

Drawn to the opportunity to influence change and support her colleagues, Whitney stepped into leadership roles, first as a Team Leader Nurse on the Medical Pediatric Unit, serving in an assistant management capacity for three years. During this time, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing through Capella University while honing her leadership skills. In 2022, Whitney became the Nursing Manager for the Medical Pediatric Unit, a role where she continues to serve with dedication. “This position helped me find my true purpose in healthcare,” Whitney shares. “I take pride in advocating not just for our patients, but for the nurses and staff who care for them.”

Leading With Purpose and Compassion

As a nurse leader, Whitney is passionate about empowering others and fostering growth for both new and experienced nurses. She is committed to creating a collaborative and respectful work environment where compassion, accountability, and professional development thrive. Her leadership focuses on staff engagement, quality outcomes, and a strong culture of safety, ensuring that patients and staff alike benefit from a supportive, purpose driven environment. “Leadership is about purpose, people, and the impact we leave behind in every interaction,” Whitney reflects.

The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly celebrates Whitney Trevino as a 2025 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader for her dedication to compassionate leadership, staff advocacy, and the pursuit of excellence in patient care.

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