Ashley N. Jenk, APRN, CNP

I’m an advanced practice nurse practitioner (APRN) specializing in pediatric neurosurgery. I connect through communication, play and support to meet caregivers and kids where they are and to ensure they feel heard, seen and well cared for—especially for their neurosurgical needs, but also holistically. As new developments emerge in neurosurgery, I continually work to grow and learn within my role. I strive to advocate for all our patients, to educate them and their families and to provide the best care.

During my high school and college years, I worked with kids in many different capacities. While in college, volunteering and being employed in private childcare, I realized that I wanted to work in healthcare and specialize in pediatrics. While attending Miami University for nursing, I landed a job at my dream hospital, Cincinnati Children's, in the Neuroscience and Trauma Unit. After I graduated with my nursing degree, I worked on that unit as a registered nurse (RN). Eventually, I wanted to further my education to better serve the children I worked with, so I returned to school to become an APRN. Because of my bedside nursing background, neurosurgery and the patients I've cared for have always held a special place in my heart. I knew, without a doubt, that this was where I wanted to be. I continue to be inspired daily by my coworkers, our organization and the patients.

I grew up in Missouri and moved to Cincinnati with my family just before entering high school. I have been here ever since and have truly fallen in love with the city. I enjoy spending time with my family (my husband, two boys and our dog), reading, traveling and adventuring outside. We also love music, and we frequent local concerts.