Dr. Ilchak was nominated by a student in the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program. Here is an excerpt of her nomination:

I am so impressed with Dr. Ilchak. She is an asset to the DNP program. Always encouraging and meticulous with her instructions, Dr. Ilchak has been instrumental in my learning. More importantly, as a professor who encounters hundreds of students a day; she makes me feel as if I am her only student. She is so patient and gives her full undivided time and attention whenever I have personal questions and need additional instructions.

I am not in the Women's DNP track that she leads, but she makes me feel like I am a valuable and important asset to the program despite my specialty in psychiatric mental health. She is always professional, kind, and approachable; willing to help in any way that she can. I appreciate how she made me feel as a student and person when encountering challenges with the DNP project and how supportive and helpful she was. Her kindness and attention to nurturing and fostering learning are instrumental to building confidence and competence in such a challenging and demanding program.