Sagar Patel, MSN, MS, FNP-BC, BSN, RN
Nursing has provided Sagar Patel with the opportunity to combine scientific discovery, compassionate patient care, and leadership into a career dedicated to improving healthcare. Through a commitment to evidence-based practice, research, and quality improvement, Sagar has built a career that extends far beyond the bedside. As a 2026 Illinois Nurses Foundation 40 Under 40 Awardee, he continues to advance the nursing profession by transforming research into meaningful improvements for patients, healthcare teams, and communities.
Where Science Meets Compassion
Sagar’s nursing journey began in India, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing. His passion for understanding the science behind patient care led him to Chicago State University, where he completed a Master of Science in Biological Sciences with a focus on transplantation immunology. He later earned his Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from United States University.
Throughout his career, Sagar has embraced diverse roles in medical-surgical nursing, nursing supervision, infection prevention and control, and now serves as a Clinical Research Nurse Practitioner. Each experience has strengthened his belief that nurses are uniquely positioned to influence healthcare through clinical excellence, research, education, and innovation.
Advancing Healthcare Through Research
Driven by a passion for infection prevention, implementation science, evidence-based practice, and healthcare quality improvement, Sagar is dedicated to translating research into practical solutions that improve patient safety and clinical outcomes. His work has been recognized on national stages, with presentations at the American Nurses Association Magnet Conference, IDWeek, and the American Nurses Enterprise Research Symposium, where he has shared innovative approaches to infection prevention and quality improvement.
Beyond his own research, Sagar contributes to the advancement of nursing science by serving as an abstract reviewer for national and international scientific meetings and peer-reviewed journals. His commitment to strengthening the profession also extends to his role as Program Development Chair for the Indian Nurses Association of Illinois, where he helps create educational and leadership opportunities for nurses across the community.
Investing in the Next Generation
For Sagar, one of the most meaningful parts of his career is mentoring nursing students and early-career nurses. He encourages future nurse leaders to embrace curiosity, pursue lifelong learning, and recognize the important role nurses play in research and healthcare innovation.
His professional journey has spanned multiple disciplines, healthcare settings, and countries, reinforcing the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and continuous growth. Whether leading research initiatives, mentoring colleagues, or improving patient outcomes, Sagar remains committed to advancing nursing through leadership, education, and service.
The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly recognizes Sagar Patel as a 2026 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader for his dedication to research, innovation, mentorship, and improving healthcare quality. His commitment to advancing nursing through evidence-based practice and leadership continues to inspire the future of the profession.
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