Jonathan Harwood is an experienced nursing leader with a strong background in long-term care regulation, clinical education, and acute care nursing. He currently serves as Division Chief of Long-Term Care Field Operations at the Illinois Department of Public Health, where he oversees statewide survey activities, ensures consistent implementation of state and federal standards, and leads strategic initiatives that strengthen regulatory oversight and quality of care across Illinois.
Since joining IDPH in 2014, Jonathan has advanced through multiple leadership roles—from Health Facilities Surveillance Nurse to Field Supervisor, and now Division Chief. His work includes developing and refining SOPs, coordinating complex survey operations, providing training and guidance to field teams, and collaborating with industry stakeholders on policy, educational updates, and regulatory initiatives. He is also instrumental in identifying and advocating for policy and legislative improvements that support safer, higher-quality long-term care environments.
Before entering public health, Jonathan worked extensively in acute care settings, including emergency medicine, trauma, care management, and clinical education at Advocate Illinois Masonic, OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, and Methodist Medical Center of Illinois. His background also includes serving as an adjunct nursing instructor at both Bradley University and Methodist College, where he supported the next generation of nurses in developing critical thinking and clinical judgment.
Jonathan holds a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus in Clinical Nurse Leadership from Saint Xavier University and earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bradley University, graduating Magna Cum Laude.
