Shay Ward

Shay Ward is an Advanced Practice Nurse and the Director of Psychiatric Services at Family Service Association of Greater Elgin. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University in 2013 and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of St. Francis in 2018. She is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Shay began her nursing career in 2001 in acute cardiac care, where she gained extensive experience working with medically complex patients and families. In 2020, she transitioned into community mental health, combining her clinical expertise with a passion for supporting children, adolescents, and young adults. She first joined FSA in 2021 as a part- time psychiatric provider before becoming the full-time Director of Psychiatric Services in September 2022. As the agency's first full-time psychiatric provider, she established and continues to lead the psychiatric program, working closely with therapists, case managers, and families to deliver high-quality, client-centered care.

Drawn to FSA's mission of providing accessible, compassionate, and equitable behavioral health services, Shay is committed to fostering resilience, empowerment, and healing. She is grateful to serve alongside a team that values collaboration and respects the dignity of every individual. Outside of work, she enjoys home renovation projects, woodworking, gardening, and spending time with family.