Stephanie Nicole Rodriguez, RN
Stephanie Nicole Rodriguez is a dedicated Registered Nurse with over five years of experience, currently specializing in pediatric oncology at UNM Hospitals in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She began her nursing career in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where she cared for vulnerable newborns, including those born to COVID-positive mothers. Her early experience in critical care laid a strong clinical foundation and ultimately guided her transition into pediatric oncology, where she has found her passion for supporting children and their families through complex medical journeys.
Stephanie earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from The University of New Mexico. Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, she is able to provide inclusive, culturally competent care to a diverse patient population. She is currently preparing to pursue certification through the Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON), further advancing her expertise in pediatric oncology and demonstrating her commitment to continued professional growth.
Beyond her clinical role, Stephanie is deeply committed to community service and advocacy for children. She has volunteered with Make-A-Wish New Mexico for over a decade, where she conducts bilingual interviews with children and families to help grant meaningful wishes for those facing life-threatening illnesses. Whether at the bedside or in the community, Stephanie is driven by compassion, resilience, and a genuine desire to make a lasting impact in the lives of the patients and families she serves.
• BSN - University of New Mexico - 2020
• Bachelor's Degree in Spanish - University of New Mexico - 2016
• State Finalist - National American Miss New Mexico Elite Category - July 2026
• Daisy Award Nominee
• Alumni Chi Omega Sorority
• Association of Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurses
• Make-A-Wish New Mexico Volunteer (10 years)
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Pediatric Oncology
- Neonatal ICU
- Bilingual Spanish-speaking
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
In my opinion, pediatric oncology and neonatal ICU are two of the best areas of nursing. I love being around babies and children, ever since I was in high school my goal was to work with these populations. While I recognize both areas have their own difficulties I am truly passionate about helping babies and children through their hardest days. I believe every milestone should be celebrated to the highest degree. Whether it's watching a nervous NICU dad feed his baby for the first time to watching a patient ring their end of chemo bell, these moments remind me why I worked so hard to be where I am today.
I recognize my current specialty- pediatric oncology isn't an easy area, but the opportunity to care for these young patients and make a difference in their lives makes it so rewarding. Through my patients I have learned the true meaning of resilience. They fight day after day with such bravery and if my kids can do hard things, that means I can too. I have also learned to appreciate how important it is to be present. Things can change so quickly and I have learned to be fully present in every situation because you never know if you will have the same opportunity later on.