INF 40 Under 40 Awardee: Harrell Jordan
As Executive Dean of Chamberlain University’s Addison campus, Dr. Harrell Jordan brings a bright, student-centered energy to everything he does. His leadership has helped maintain high faculty engagement and exceptional NCLEX pass rates, but his impact extends far beyond the classroom. A dedicated nurse educator, Dr. Jordan is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of nurses especially those from underserved and underrepresented communities. His passion for teaching is rooted in a desire to help others succeed. He understands firsthand the difference strong mentorship can make, having once served as one of six inaugural mentors in Chamberlain Chicago’s NCLEX mentorship program, designed to support students as they prepare to pass their licensing exam on the first attempt.
Creating Space for Men in Nursing
As a Black male nurse in a female dominated profession, Dr. Jordan is working to change the narrative and create space for others to lead. He was instrumental in launching Chamberlain’s first Men in Nursing registered student organization across the Addison, Chicago, and Tinley Park campuses, an initiative that brings visibility, support, and representation to male nursing students and professionals. His leadership continues to pave the way. In 2023, Dr. Jordan made history as the first Black male to graduate with a PhD in Nursing from the University of Illinois at Chicago’s College of Nursing and the first Black male Executive Dean across all Chamberlain campuses.
Amplifying the Voices of Black Men
During his doctoral studies, Dr. Jordan focused his research on Black men’s health seeking behaviors and their perceptions of their current health status. His work culminated in a published article in the American Journal of Men’s Health titled “Exploring Preventive Health Care Utilization Among Black/African American Men.” His interest in this topic was fueled by his years of experience as an emergency room nurse on Chicago’s West Side, where he witnessed health disparities firsthand. He has since become a leading voice on this topic, with appearances on the Nurse Educator podcast and the Where They Live radio show to raise awareness around the systemic barriers Black men face in accessing healthcare.
Extending His Impact Through Faith and Career Coaching
Believing that culturally congruent care leads to stronger health outcomes, Dr. Jordan pursued certification in Christian counseling to better serve the mental health needs of the communities he represents. Through his business, Career Compass, he offers faith-based counseling services with an emphasis on Black men, as well as resume reviews, mock interviews, and career coaching consultations for professionals at all stages. His mission is simple yet powerful: to guide others toward becoming the best version of themselves personally, professionally, and holistically.
A Trailblazer for the Future of Nursing
Dr. Jordan’s multifaceted work as an educator, researcher, mentor, and advocate reflects his deep belief in the power of nurses to transform lives and communities. His leadership is shaping the future of nursing education and redefining what’s possible for nurses of color in leadership roles.
The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly celebrates Dr. Harrell Jordan as a 2025 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader for his dedication to lead with integrity, courage, and unwavering purpose.
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