2026 NAHN-Illinois Board Candidates

May 19, 2026

Leadership is not just about who serves—it’s about how we continue to grow, advocate, and show up for our communities.

We are proud to introduce the candidates for the 2026 NAHN-Illinois Executive Board and Board of Directors, representing one President-Elect position and two Director-at-Large positions. Each candidate brings a unique perspective, lived experience, and a shared commitment to advancing Hispanic nurses and improving health outcomes across Illinois.

President-Elect Candidate

Rocio Olvera MSN, RN

I am honored to seek the President-Elect role for NAHN-Illinois, driven by a commitment to advance Hispanic nurses and improve the health of our communities. My journey with NAHN began as a student, and it shaped my passion for building leadership pathways that are equitable, sustainable, and impactful. With experience at both the chapter and national level, I bring a focus on strengthening structure, accountability, and long-term growth.    

My vision centers on expanding access to nursing, developing leaders, advancing advocacy, and driving measurable community impact. As we build on 40 years of legacy,

I invite you to join me—juntos seguimos.

"I believe that who we are as nurses, and who we become as leaders, directly shapes the care  
our communities receive."

Director-at-Large Candidates (2 seats)

Mireya “Mia” Flores BSN AMB- BC, CMSRN

I am excited to seek the Director-At-Large position with NAHN-Illinois, bringing a strong background in surgical nursing, education, and ambulatory care. My work has focused on improving patient outcomes, enhancing workflows, and supporting nurses through education and structured processes. I am passionate about empowering nurses with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities needed to grow and lead in today’s healthcare environment. If elected, I will prioritize engagement, professional development, collaboration, and strong communication across our organization. I am committed to advancing nursing excellence, advocacy, and equitable, patient-centered care.

“I would focus on promoting nursing engagement and professional development opportunities,... encourage collaboration between nursing organizations, and strengthen communication between leadership and association members.”

Patricia Ramirez MSN, RN

I am honored to seek a Director position with NAHN-Illinois after more than 20 years of dedicated membership. NAHN has been a guiding force in my journey, shaping my commitment to leadership and service in underserved communities. As a scholarship recipient who earned my MSN in Education, I’ve had the privilege of teaching and caring for patients in my own community while providing culturally and linguistically responsive care. I am deeply committed to advancing NAHN’s mission, goals, and impact across Illinois. I am ready to serve with dedication, experience, and a passion for uplifting our communities.

“NAHN has been a guiding force in my life and has allowed me to learn what a leader is in assisting the underserved communities.”

Geanabelle “Geana” Chapp MSN, RN

I am honored to seek the Director-at-Large position with NAHN-Illinois, bringing over 20 years of nursing experience across clinical care, education, and community health. As I complete my Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate, I remain committed to advancing health equity and expanding access to care. As the owner of a nurse-led wellness clinic, I focus on delivering patient-centered, community-based services that promote prevention and well-being. I am passionate about supporting the growth of future nurses and strengthening our collective impact. I look forward to contributing my leadership and dedication to advancing NAHN’s mission.

“ I am eager to contribute my experience, leadership, and dedication to advancing NAHN’s mission, supporting its members, and continuing to advocate for health equity within the communities we serve.”

Ana Lopez RN

Rooted in community and ready to lead, I am honored to seek a Director role with NAHN. As a newly licensed RN, I am committed to advancing health equity, supporting Hispanic nurses, and strengthening the communities we serve. My leadership experience and involvement in student and professional organizations have fueled my passion for mentorship, engagement, and culturally competent care. Through my clinical work in cardiology, I’ve seen firsthand the disparities impacting our communities and the need for compassionate, collaborative solutions. I am dedicated to uplifting members, expanding opportunities for early-career nurses, and building a stronger, more connected NAHN.

“ I am committed to strengthening the foundation of our organization by uplifting members, expanding mentorship opportunities, and increasing engagement among students and early-career nurses.”

Alexa Perez MSN, RN

I am honored to seek a Director position with NAHN-Illinois, driven by a deep commitment to health equity, culturally responsive care, and advancing Hispanic nurses. As a bilingual, first-generation Mexican-American nurse with maternal-newborn experience, I am passionate about improving outcomes for underserved communities. My leadership and advocacy work—from health equity fellowships to large-scale program coordination—has prepared me to drive meaningful impact. I bring both lived experience and a proven ability to lead, collaborate, and execute initiatives that support nurses at every stage. If elected, I am committed to strengthening engagement, expanding opportunities, and elevating our collective impact across Illinois.

“Beyond clinical practice, I have engaged in leadership and advocacy focused on health systems equity and community impact.”

🗓️ Election Timeline:

  • • Candidate Town Hall: May 21
  • • Voting Opens: May 22
  • • Voting Closes: May 31
  • • Results Announced: June 5

Eligible licensed NAHN-Illinois members will receive their ballots via email. As we approach another chapter in our leadership journey, your voice matters. Our collective future is shaped not only by those who lead—but by those who engage, support, and vote.

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