- Susan Rux creates transformational clinical learning experiences that build student confidence, judgment, and professional identity.
- Her mentorship emphasizes patient-centered care, clinical reasoning, and psychological safety, supporting meaningful student growth.
- Students consistently describe her guidance as a defining moment when theory and practice fully come together.
PHILADELPHIA (May 13, 2026) — Susan Rux, PhD, DNP, RN, FACHE, Associate Vice President of Professional Nursing Practice and Research at Fox Chase Cancer Center, has received the Pennsylvania Institute of Technology’s (P.I.T.) Excellence in Healthcare Community Award - Clinical Excellence.
Presented as part of the 2026 Pennsylvania Institute of Technology Awards Gala, the Excellence in Healthcare Community Award recognizes leaders whose work creates meaningful and lasting impact across healthcare, economic, and social initiatives. Rux was selected for her exceptional contributions to clinical education and her profound influence on the development of future healthcare professionals.
“It’s both humbling and energizing,” Rux said. “I’m grateful to be recognized alongside leaders who are deeply committed to driving meaningful impact in their communities.”
Transformational Clinical Education
According to her nomination, Rux creates clinical learning environments where students move beyond theory and begin to develop professional capability. Under her guidance, “the clinical environment becomes a defining moment in students’ education, a place where knowledge turns into mastery, hesitation becomes confidence, and learners begin to see themselves as capable healthcare professionals.”
Rather than simply supervising, Rux is recognized for elevating clinical education. She teaches clinical reasoning with clarity, models exceptional patient-centered care, and fosters psychologically safe learning spaces where students feel supported, respected, and appropriately challenged.
Students consistently describe their clinical rotations with Rux as the moment when everything “clicked”—when they first learned how to integrate sound judgment, compassion, communication, and technical skill into real-world practice.
Mentorship That Shapes Careers
Rux’s mentorship is described as intentional, rigorous, and deeply human. She tailors learning to each student, provides honest and encouraging feedback, and demonstrates through every interaction what excellence in healthcare looks like.
Her influence extends well beyond a single clinical rotation. Former students credit her guidance with shaping them into clinicians who are not only technically skilled, but also ethical, resilient, and deeply committed to patient care.
“For her extraordinary commitment to student growth and her profound impact on the next generation of healthcare professionals, Susan Rux is truly deserving of this award,” the nomination stated.
A Lasting Community Impact
The Excellence in Healthcare Community Award recognizes leaders whose work strengthens healthcare systems and improves outcomes for both patients and professionals. Rux’s dedication to experiential learning and mentorship reflects a sustained commitment to advancing healthcare through education, service, and leadership.
Rux was presented with the award at the Third Annual P.I.T. Awards Gala on May 13.