Alyse Flury, DNP, RN, CNE
For Alyse Flurry, nursing is about empowering others to discover their confidence, find their voice, and realize their potential. From caring for patients in behavioral health to mentoring future nurses in the classroom, her career has been guided by a passion for education, advocacy, and helping others succeed. As a 2026 Illinois Nurses Foundation 40 Under 40 Awardee, Alyse continues to shape the future of nursing by investing in students, advancing nursing education, and championing compassionate mental healthcare.
Discovering a Passion for Teaching
Alyse began her nursing career after earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2009, providing care in behavioral health and later serving as a Director of Nursing in an assisted living facility. Although she found fulfillment in patient care and leadership, it was while serving as a preceptor for community health nursing students that she discovered her true calling.
Inspired by the opportunity to mentor future nurses, Alyse earned her Master of Science in Nursing Education, completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, and became a Certified Nurse Educator. She began her academic career at Northern Illinois University, teaching undergraduate nursing students in both clinical and classroom settings while helping them develop the clinical judgment, confidence, and professional skills needed to succeed.
Investing in the Future of Nursing
Today, Alyse serves as the Academic Support Center Coordinator at Saint Anthony College of Nursing, where she is dedicated to helping nursing students overcome challenges and reach their full potential. One of her proudest accomplishments has been developing and expanding academic support initiatives that shifted student success efforts from reactive remediation to proactive development.
She believes that every investment made in nursing students ultimately becomes an investment in the future of healthcare. By creating opportunities for students to build confidence before challenges arise, Alyse is helping develop resilient, knowledgeable nurses who are prepared to provide exceptional patient care.
Empowering Leaders Through Compassion
Alyse is passionate about advancing nursing education while also advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness. Her background in psychiatric nursing continues to influence her teaching, reminding students that compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare is an essential part of every nursing specialty.
Beyond the classroom, Alyse mentors’ students, collaborates with faculty, presents scholarly work at regional and national conferences, and serves on the Board of the Illinois Chapter of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She believes leadership is not defined by personal accomplishments alone, but by the opportunities we create for others to grow.
Outside of her professional life, Alyse treasures time with her husband and son, who remind her daily of the importance of resilience, balance, and celebrating life’s meaningful moments. She remains committed to inspiring future nurses, advancing nursing education, and ensuring every student has the confidence to become the leader they are capable of being.
The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly recognizes Alyse Flurry as a 2026 40 Under 40 Awardee for her dedication to nursing education, student success, mental health advocacy, and developing the next generation of nurse leaders. Through her passion for mentorship and lifelong learning, she continues to create a lasting impact on the nursing profession and the future of healthcare.
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