Amy Manion, PhD, RN, CPNP-PC

Assistant Professor
Department of Women, Children, and Family Nursing, College of Nursing
Role: Faculty
Joined Rush in 2007

Bio

I have over 27 years of pediatric clinical experience as both a nurse and a nurse practitioner, and I have spoken nationally and internationally on asthma, obesity, breastfeeding and child development. I received my PhD in Nursing from Loyola University. I am an assistant professor at Rush University School of Nursing and maintain a private clinical practice in Chicago. In 2012, I started a successful breastfeeding/nutrition support group at Simpson Academy for Young Women, which has received community donations as well as funding from various institutions, including Rush University, Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor society, and the McNeil Foundation.

What inspired you to get into your field?

I have always wanted to be a nurse since I was 16 years old. I am the oldest of six kids, and I started babysitting at a young age. Also, I really liked the TV show, “MASH,” when I was growing up. I did extremely well in school and was at the top of my class. I was able to get numerous scholarships to go to nursing school. I knew that I would need a career where I could support myself and that there would always be a need for nurses. I am very lucky to have found a career that I love that allows me to work with children and help others every day.

What excited you about your work at Rush?

Sharing my passion about nursing is what excites me about working at Rush. The faculty and staff at Rush University are always willing to help each other.

What is your opinion of mentoring and sponsorship? Please comment about your experiences.

I have been very fortunate to have mentors throughout my career. Arlene Sperhac, Marilyn Wideman, Chandice Covington, and Lou Fogg, all of whom are Rush faculty, have mentored me and supported me in various ways over the years. I have tried to pay their guidance forward by mentoring others like they have done for me.

Do you have tips or advice you would recommend for someone looking to enter your field of work?

Don’t give up. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. Also, think outside the box.

What are your hobbies? How do you like to spend your free time?

I have completed over 15 marathons. I love to travel and have been all over the world. I also play guitar and flute.