INF 40 Under 40 Awardee: Mikayla Ranallo

Mikayla’s journey into nursing began with a clear mission to walk alongside people through some of the most vulnerable chapters of their lives. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Marquette University, Mikayla launched her career in Denver as a Bone Marrow Transplant inpatient nurse. It was there she discovered the unique strength, hope, and humanity that exists in oncology care, and she never looked back.

Finding Purpose in the Stories of Others

With nine years of experience dedicated to hematology and oncology, Mikayla has built a career rooted in compassion, connection, and advocacy. After relocating to Chicago, she continued caring for patients as an inpatient hematology nurse, later transitioning into outpatient roles including infusion nurse, Bone Marrow Transplant coordinator, and her current position as a leukemia nurse navigator. For Mikayla, the heart of her work is simple yet profound: sitting with patients, hearing their stories, and creating a space where they feel supported. “Helping oncology patients through the hardest moments of their lives and offering them a safe and positive space to reach out for help has been the greatest part of being a nurse,” she says.

Expanding Her Reach Through Primary Care

Mikayla’s passion for healing continues to evolve. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Primary Care at Rush University with the goal of becoming a nurse practitioner by December 2026. Her vision includes expanding her impact through functional health, an approach focused on prevention, lifestyle, and long-term well-being. “I want to help others put themselves and their health first,” she shares. Her ultimate goal is to help prevent or delay the onset of disease by equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to lead healthier lives.

A Nurse Guided by Heart, Purpose, and Advocacy

Mikayla’s career is a testament to the power of nursing beyond procedures or protocols; it’s about human connection. Whether she’s coordinating care for leukemia patients or preparing for her future in functional health, her work is centered on empathy, education, and empowerment.

The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly celebrates Mikayla Ranallo 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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