INF 40 Under 40 Awardee: Brittany Lawson

Brittany Lawson’s journey into nursing didn’t begin with a carefully laid-out plan it began with a search for stability. As a teen mother and high school dropout, she found herself navigating uncertainty while caring for her young children. One day at the local library, a simple flyer for free CNA classes caught her eye. Unsure of what a Certified Nursing Assistant even did, Brittany signed up. It was a leap of faith that would ultimately change her life.

A Life Transformed by Mentorship

In those early classes, an instructor saw something special in Brittany and encouraged her to pursue nursing. That one moment of belief and mentorship set her on a new path. She earned her Associate Degree in Nursing in 2013 and began working in long-term care, where she discovered a deep connection to her patients particularly older adults and their families. Her empathy, skill, and dedication quickly propelled her into leadership roles, advancing from floor nurse to restorative care nurse to MDS coordinator all within the same facility where she began as a CNA.

Rooted in Education and Empowerment

Brittany’s love of learning and desire to give back led her to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing Education. In 2019, she joined the faculty at Lakeview College of Nursing, where she has served as an instructor, assistant professor, and Dean of the nursing program. Currently, she holds the role of Director of Assessment while pursuing her PhD in nursing education. A Certified Nurse Educator, Brittany is known for making complex topics accessible and mentoring both students and new faculty with warmth and clarity.

Advocacy at Every Level

Brittany’s leadership extends beyond the classroom. She’s an active member of Sigma Theta Tau International and the American Nurses Association. She has also contributed to shaping the future of nursing in Illinois by participating in revisions to the Nurse Practice Act and joining AACN’s Dean’s Hill Day in Washington, D.C. to advocate for policies that support nurse educators.

Redefining What’s Possible

Brittany’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and proof that a single opportunity, paired with the right support, can transform a life. From a library flyer to leadership in education and policy, she continues to champion nursing’s future by guiding and uplifting others. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and compassion in shaping the next generation of nurses.

The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly celebrates Brittany Lawson as a 2025 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader for her determination, innovation, and shaping the future of nursing education and research.

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