Orland Park resident Diane Kozik’s mission to help others has never wavered, even in times of heartbreak and sorrow. Through grief, she found strength, emerging even more determined in her calling.
It’s no surprise, then, that Kozik, a registered nurse specializing in behavioral health at Advocate South Suburban Hospital, has been named the 2024 Nurse of the Year. She was recognized for exemplifying Advocate Health Care’s core nursing values and delivering unwavering, best-in-class care.
“Diane is known for treating patients with respect and compassion, which allows her to build trust and help even the most vulnerable patients move toward healing,” said Sharon Otten, vice president and chief nursing officer at Advocate South Suburban. “I can’t think of a more deserving member of our nursing team to receive this honor.”
After serving two years in the Army, Kozik pursued higher education, earning a dual Bachelor of Arts in liberal arts from Monmouth College and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Rush University College of Nursing.
This May marks 45 years with Advocate for Kozik, who began her career immediately after graduating from nursing school in 1980. She started in the inpatient behavioral health unit at Advocate Christ Medical Center before transitioning to South Suburban Hospital. She also spent nearly two years in outpatient behavioral health within the Advocate Christ Behavioral Health Department.
Working in Advocate South Suburban’s new Behavioral Health Unit, which opened in December 2023, Kozik helps provide acute and intensive care for more than 650 patients annually. The 27-bed unit was established to address the growing need for mental health services in Chicago’s southern suburbs.
“I remember wanting to be a nurse as a little girl,” Kozik said. “I was in the hospital at four years old for a ruptured appendix. I don’t remember much, but the nurses must have made an impression on me.”
As she grew older, Kozik realized she couldn’t afford college. Determined to reach her goal, she joined the Army, inspired by her two brothers’ service and the benefits of the GI Bill.
“I could serve my country while securing my future,” she said. “When I got out of the Army, I followed through and earned my nursing degree.”
Initially, Kozik thought she would become a pediatric nurse, but her first job offer was in behavioral health.
“I was so impressed by the kindness and teamwork of the staff that I never left,” she said. “Every time I think I can’t go on and should retire, God sends me a patient who needs my understanding and connection. We all have something to cope with, and we do it together. That’s my reward.”
Kozik’s commitment extends beyond patient care. She has provided scholarships and mentorship to aspiring behavioral health nurses, ensuring her legacy continues.
“In my career, I have given scholarships to more than 25 students I call ‘my kids,’” she said.
One of her inspirations was her high school best friend, who became a doctor.
“When I was in nursing school, he was my support system. He pushed me when I wanted to give up,” Kozik said. “He had just made it to his fellowship in medicine when he was diagnosed with cancer. He died a year later when we were 30. I immediately started a scholarship for the counselors and nurses’ aides in the behavioral health unit who were pursuing nursing.”
Kozik experienced another profound loss in 2018 when her 26-year-old daughter, Kristen, died from an accidental fentanyl overdose.
“After my daughter passed, I stepped up my scholarships and mentoring,” she said. “Kristen gives me signs that keep me going. I find hearts from heaven in the most unlikely places. Every time I think I can’t do it and should retire; God sends me a patient who needs my understanding.”
Kozik’s dedication and compassionate heart led to her selection as Advocate South Suburban Hospital’s 2024 Nurse of the Year.
More than 1,200 nurses from various specialties across Advocate’s patient care continuum were nominated for the honor. Nominations were submitted by clinicians and colleagues and reviewed by peer committees through a blinded judging process, evaluating each nominee’s passion for patient care, commitment to service, problem-solving skills, and evidence-based practice.
“I was totally shocked,” Kozik said. “Receiving this award means that I’m valued, and that mental health is valued in our society. Shining a light on this area of health care is so important to me.”
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