Amanda Chow, MSN, RN, CNL, CCRN
For Amanda Chow, nursing is about creating opportunities for others to learn, grow, and thrive. From caring for critically ill patients in intensive care and emergency settings to educating the next generation of nurses, she has built her career on a foundation of compassion, curiosity, and continuous learning. As a 2026 Illinois Nurses Foundation 40 Under 40 Awardee, Amanda is helping shape the future of nursing by fostering confidence, clinical excellence, and a culture where learning is embraced.
From Critical Care to the Classroom
Amanda began her nursing career after graduating from Rush University’s Generalist Entry Master’s (GEM) program. She built a strong clinical foundation in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, which later transitioned into a COVID-19 ICU before evolving into a Medical-Surgical ICU. Along the way, she expanded her experience through roles in adult emergency and trauma care, pediatric intensive care, and flight nursing.
After several years at the bedside, Amanda discovered a new passion while serving as a clinical instructor. She found great fulfillment in helping students bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world patient care. That experience inspired her to transition into her current faculty role at Rush University, where she continues to educate future nurses while pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Transformative Leadership.
Teaching with Compassion and Confidence
Amanda believes the most meaningful learning happens in environments where people feel safe to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow from experience. She is passionate about helping nursing students and new nurses develop not only clinical skills but also the confidence and critical thinking needed to provide exceptional patient care.
One experience that continues to guide her teaching philosophy occurred while working in the emergency department. After noticing a new graduate nurse silence, a patient alarm without first assessing the situation, Amanda chose to approach the moment as an opportunity for learning rather than criticism. Together, they discussed the importance of patient safety in a supportive and respectful way. Months later, that nurse shared how the conversation became one of the most valuable learning experiences of her early career, a reminder that thoughtful mentorship can leave a lasting impact.
Leading Through Trust
Amanda believes leadership begins by building trust. Whether teaching in the classroom, mentoring future nurses, or collaborating with colleagues, she strives to create an environment where others feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to succeed.
Outside of nursing, Amanda enjoys spending time with dogs and has a special interest in working with behavioral dogs. Through those experiences, she has come to appreciate the importance of patience, consistency, and trust qualities that also shape her approach as an educator and nurse leader. She remains committed to preparing future nurses with the knowledge, confidence, and compassion needed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients.
The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly recognizes Amanda Chow as a 2026 40 Under 40 Awardee for her dedication to nursing education, mentorship, compassionate leadership, and developing the next generation of nurses. Through her commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences, she continues to strengthen the future of the nursing profession and improve patient care.
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