INF 40 Under 40 Awardee: Nicole O’Connor

Nicole O’Connor, DNP, APRN-FPA, CPNP-AC, RN, has dedicated nearly two decades to pediatric nursing, beginning her career at the bedside in the NICU, PICU, and PCICU. Her experiences in these high acuity environments have shaped her into a clinician known for her calm under pressure, collaborative spirit, and deep empathy. Whether supporting a fragile newborn or guiding families through complex cardiac care, Nicole brings knowledge, compassion, and presence to every encounter.

Leading with Expertise and Purpose

Nicole’s first leadership role as an ECMO Coordinator launched her into a realm of innovation and program development. She managed one of the most complex life-support therapies in pediatrics, applying her DNP research to create a specialized Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) department. The department prioritized quality and safety through the introduction of ECMO and VAD-trained nurses. Her work laid the groundwork for institutional change, and Nicole became the inaugural Nursing Supervisor for MCS.

Building Foundations for Pediatric Cardiac Care

Her leadership didn’t stop there. Nicole continued to expand her impact as the inaugural Cardiac Service Line APP Supervisor at Advocate Children’s Hospital. In this role, she helped build the infrastructure for advanced practice providers within the cardiac service line. She played a central role in developing and launching several critical programs, including pediatric ECMO, MCS, and heart transplantation, guiding her institution through its first successful pediatric heart transplants.

A Voice in Research, Education, and Mentorship

Beyond her clinical contributions, Nicole has made her mark as a coauthor of peer-reviewed publications and textbook chapters, and as a national conference presenter. Known by her colleagues for her integrity and supportive leadership, Nicole is a dedicated mentor and champion for interdisciplinary teamwork. She leads with humility and heart, believing that real leadership is about elevating others and creating a space where all voices are valued.

The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly celebrates Nicole O’Connor as a 2025 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader for her dedication to empowering the next generation, innovative healing research, nursing education, and leadership.

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