Danielle Prate, MSN, RN, CPN
For Danielle Prate, nursing is about creating confidence, fostering growth, and ensuring every nurse is prepared to provide exceptional care. From caring for children at the bedside to developing educational programs for pediatric oncology nurses, her career has been guided by a passion for supporting both patients and the nurses who care for them. As a 2026 Illinois Nurses Foundation 40 Under 40 Awardee, Danielle continues to strengthen pediatric nursing through education, mentorship, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Discovering a Passion for Pediatric Nursing
Danielle began her nursing career after earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Illinois State University in 2014. She started her career with Advocate before following her passion for pediatrics and joining Advocate Children’s Hospital just one year later. It was there that she discovered her calling, caring for children and supporting families during some of their most challenging moments.
Committed to advancing her expertise, Danielle earned her Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) credential and later completed her Master of Science in Nursing Education from Chamberlain University. In 2022, she transitioned into Nursing Professional Development, allowing her to combine her love for pediatric patient care with her passion for teaching and mentoring fellow nurses.
Helping Nurses Build Confidence
Danielle believes that investing in nurses ultimately improves the care children and families receive. She is passionate about helping nurses strengthen their clinical knowledge, develop confidence, and reach their full potential as healthcare professionals.
One of her proudest accomplishments has been developing and implementing an Introduction to Pediatric Oncology Nursing course designed to prepare newly chemotherapy-trained nurses as they begin caring for children with cancer. Through this program, she has helped create a strong educational foundation that supports both nurses and the specialized patients they serve.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Whether mentoring colleagues, creating educational opportunities, or supporting professional development, Danielle is committed to helping nurses grow throughout every stage of their careers. She believes that strong education and meaningful mentorship not only shape individual careers but also strengthen the future of the nursing profession.
Outside of work, Danielle enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter and creating lasting memories with her family. She remains grateful for the opportunities she has been given to educate and mentor others and looks forward to continuing to inspire future nurse leaders through compassion, collaboration, and lifelong learning.
The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly recognizes Danielle Prate as a 2026 40 Under 40 Awardee for her dedication to pediatric nursing, nursing education, mentorship, and professional development. Through her commitment to preparing and empowering nurses, she continues to make a lasting impact on children, families, and the future of the nursing profession.
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