Leesa Thompson, DNP, RN
For Leesa Thompson, nursing has always been about people the patients whose lives she has touched, the students she has inspired, and the colleagues she has encouraged along the way. From caring for critically ill children to educating the next generation of nurses, she has embraced every opportunity to make a lasting difference through compassion, knowledge, and unwavering support. As a 2026 Illinois Nurses Foundation 40 Under 40 Awardee, Leesa continues to leave a meaningful impact on everyone fortunate enough to learn from or be cared for by her.
Finding Purpose in Every Chapter
Leesa’s nursing journey began at OSF Saint Francis College of Nursing, where she graduated in December 2012 with a dream of caring for children. She began her career in Pediatric Intermediate Care, caring for children with complex medical needs, including oncology patients after earning her chemotherapy certification and children living with congenital heart defects.
As her career evolved, Leesa discovered one of nursing’s greatest strengths, there is never just one path. That realization led her to emergency nursing, where she found fulfillment in the fast-paced environment and the opportunity to care for patients of all ages. From welcoming an unexpected newborn in the emergency department to providing comfort during a family’s final goodbye, each experience reaffirmed her calling to serve others during life’s most unforgettable moments.
Inspiring Confidence Through Education
While patient care remains at the heart of her career, Leesa’s greatest passion today is serving as a nurse educator. She believes nursing is about far more than developing clinical skills, it’s about helping others discover confidence in themselves while continuing to learn, adapt, and grow.
For Leesa, there is no greater reward than watching students overcome challenges, celebrate milestones, and develop into compassionate, capable nurses. Hearing from former students about the lives they are changing and the careers they are building continues to remind her why she chose to teach.
Leaving Every Person Better Than Before
If you ask Leesa’s students what makes her memorable, many will probably mention her unmistakable laugh echoing through the hallway. More importantly, they know that her presence means encouragement, reassurance, and someone who genuinely believes in their potential.
Whether caring for patients, mentoring future nurses, or collaborating with colleagues, Leesa strives to leave every person feeling more confident, more supported, and inspired to make a difference in the lives of others. Her kindness, enthusiasm, and belief in those around her continue to shape not only individual careers but the future of nursing itself.
The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly recognizes Leesa Thompson as a 2026 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader for her dedication to compassionate patient care, nursing education, and empowering future nurses to reach their full potential. Through every interaction, she continues to inspire confidence, foster growth, and strengthen the nursing profession for generations to come.
Support the future of nursing leaders like Leesa. Donate to INF to help us continue empowering nurse leaders across Illinois. Donate today!