The wait times in our emergency departments are longer than usual due to illnesses like RSV and the flu. View our estimated ED wait times and learn more about where to get care for your sick child.

Caroline Njau named one of the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal’s 40 under 40

Caroline NjauCongratulations to Caroline Njau, senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer, for being recognized as one of Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal’s 40 under 40!

The annual award celebrates 40 leaders in the Twin Cities region under the age of 40 who have demonstrated outstanding professional successes while also contributing to their communities and showing leadership in their industries.

Caroline’s forward-thinking approach to nursing recruitment, retention and development has been critical in a tight and competitive labor market. She has also been intentional to ensure that recruitment efforts support the diversity goals of the nursing workforce. In 2022 alone, 20.6% of all registered nurse (RN) hires in patient care units were nurses of color.

In addition, Caroline has been an advocate for children’s needs as well as the community health care needs. During the recent respiratory illness surge, she engaged Minnesota Department of Health as a key partner in keeping the community healthy. She provided insights as well as championed several strategies, including public health advocacy for flu vaccines, patient family messaging on how to seek care appropriately, set up staffing pools in partnership with the department of health and conducted a 21-day rapid improvement event to address capacity issues during the height of the RSV surge.

Caroline, and the other 40 under 40 honorees, will be celebrated at the March 9 awards ceremony at the Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, and will be featured in the Business Journal’s March 10 special print edition, as well as online.

If you are subscribed to the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal, you can read Caroline’s full 40 under 40 profile here.

More news stories

Transgender Day of Visibility: stories of joy (and wise words) from transgender and gender diverse youth.
In honor of Transgender Day of Visibility, Dr. Kade Goepferd invites transgender and gender diverse youth to share what brings them joy. Special thanks to Transforming Families for their partnership...
Chloe’s journey with cerebral palsy: a story of strength and determination
Chloe is a spunky, adventurous and independent 4-year-old. She loves to play with friends, swim and learn new things. Chloe was diagnosed with a mild case of cerebral palsy shortly...
Star Gala inspires $2.14 million in giving to support Children’s Minnesota child and family services program
Children’s Minnesota is excited to announce the 33rd annual Star Gala raised $2.14 million to benefit the nonprofit pediatric health system’s child and family services program....