Samantha Whiteaker, a dedicated nursing instructor from Arlington, has been honored with the esteemed 2025 Stephen Charry Memorial Award for Teaching Excellence at Illinois Valley Community College. Whiteaker is celebrated for her exceptional mentorship and dedication, leaving a profound influence on both her students and the broader community. Her commitment to nurturing future healthcare professionals is acknowledged through this prestigious accolade. The award ceremony is scheduled to be held at Senica’s Oak Ridge Golf Club, recognizing her invaluable contributions to education and healthcare. Whiteaker continues to inspire and lead with passion, setting a remarkable example in the field of nursing education.
Whiteaker, renowned for her dedication to nursing education and community service, has clinched the prestigious Stephen Charry Award. Graduating from OSF Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing in 2008, she joined the IVCC faculty in 2013 and 2021. Her 2012 master’s degree in nursing education, coupled with 17 years as a registered nurse specializing in maternal and child health, showcases her expertise. A home birth nurse-midwife assistant, she invests in the community through pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding support. On campus, she advises the Women’s Health and Wellness Student Group and leads charitable work for Abigail Women’s Center.
“Receiving this award is a deeply humbling honor. It serves as a powerful reminder of the privilege I have in teaching students both the science and the art of nursing. Students inspire me to continually strive for personal and professional growth, and I consider myself fortunate to guide them, witness their development, and help them realize their full potential. I remain committed to encouraging students to forge meaningful connections with their patients while emphasizing the importance of lifelong community service. This recognition reflects the profound impact that students have had on my life,” Whiteaker said.
Whiteaker and the other nominees—Christina Boughton, Vince Brolley, Anna Bruch, Carmen Hartford, Keith King, Tracy Lee, Theresa Molln, Jared Olesen,, and Eric Schroeder—will be honored Thursday, April 3, 2025, at IVCC’s employee recognition reception at Senica’s Oak Ridge Golf Club.
“She also understands heavy course load and life load and how that impacts our experience in nursing school,” wrote Laura Kicinski in her nomination.
“She inspires us to be kind and focused on the community by highlighting the value of patient advocacy and comprehensive care. She engages us in conversations on meeting patient needs that go beyond medical care, such as providing emotional support and having good lines of communication with families,” wrote Keysha Cortez in her nomination.
