Ophelia Stack, BSN, RN
For Ophelia Stack, nursing has always been about building trust, creating opportunities, and showing up for others when they need it most. From beginning her healthcare journey as a first-generation college student to becoming a respected school nurse and community advocate, she has dedicated her career to caring for the whole person. As a 2026 Illinois Nurses Foundation 40 Under 40 Awardee, Ophelia continues to make a meaningful difference by ensuring every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed.
Building a Foundation for Success
As a first-generation college student, Ophelia approached her nursing journey with determination and purpose. She began at Harper College, earning her Certified Nursing Assistant credential and Associate degree before transferring to Chamberlain University to complete her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
While pursuing her education, Ophelia gained valuable experience working in a nursing home before joining Advocate Sherman Hospital as an emergency department technician. The fast-paced environment taught her the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and quick clinical decision-making, but perhaps most importantly, it taught her how to build trust with patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. Graduating during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic brought unique challenges, yet those experiences strengthened her resilience and deepened her commitment to serving others.
Caring Beyond the Clinic
While working in the emergency department, Ophelia discovered a passion for mentoring others by training new emergency department technicians and helping introduce volunteers to the department. After welcoming her son, she sought a career that would allow her to continue making a difference while creating a healthier work-life balance. That journey led her to school nursing at Wheeling High School, a decision that would become one of the most rewarding chapters of her career.
As a school nurse, Ophelia has worked to expand access to care by bringing mobile medical and dental clinics directly to students and their families. Recognizing that student success extends beyond healthcare, she also assumed leadership of the school’s clothing and shoe closet, ensuring students had access to essential items that allow them to learn with confidence and dignity.
Creating a Safe Place to Grow
For Ophelia, one of her greatest accomplishments isn’t measured by awards or titles, it’s the trust her students place in her each day. Whether they visit her office because they are sick, need help with homework, or simply need someone to listen, she has created a space where students know they will be welcomed without judgment.
Her dedication to student advocacy earned her the 2025 Illinois State Board of Education Those Who Excel Award and has continued through her leadership with the Illinois Association of School Nurses, where she proudly serves as Vice President of the Foundation. As a first-generation bilingual college graduate, Ophelia hopes her journey encourages others to believe that perseverance, compassion, and service can open doors not only for themselves, but for the communities they serve.
The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly recognizes Ophelia Stack as a 2026 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader for her dedication to school nursing, student advocacy, community outreach, and compassionate leadership. Through her commitment to removing barriers, building meaningful relationships, and empowering young people to thrive, she continues to make a lasting impact on students, families, and the nursing profession throughout Illinois.
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