Dr. Susan McMillan receives 2014 ONS Distinguished Researcher Award

University of South Florida College of Nursing Distinguished Professor and Thompson Professor of Oncology Nursing, Susan C. McMillan, PhD, ARNP, FAAN, will receive the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) 2014 Distinguished Researcher Award for her outstanding contributions to oncology nursing practice and research. She is the only oncology scientist in the country to receive this award.

“It is an honor to be recognized by a prestigious organization such as ONS,” Dr. McMillan said. “This award is always very competitive, so it’s very encouraging to know that this national organization values my body of work.”

Dr. McMillan will be recognized with the award during the Opening Ceremonies of ANS Annual Congress May 1 through May 4, 2014 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. During this special event, she will present her life-changing work on cancer symptom management and quality of life in persons with cancer.

Dr. McMillan, who is a member of the Board of Review and Editorial Board for the Oncology Nursing Forum, was nominated by the Greater Tampa ONS Chapter. The local Chapter’s Secretary, Mary Beth Reardon, RN, MS, OCN, said Dr. McMillan has had a tremendous influence on the education and professional development of oncology nurses regionally, nationally and internationally.

“She has really touched the lives of many nurses as she encouraged them to choose a career in oncology, advance degrees and inspire them to be the very best,” Reardon said. “Most importantly for this award, she has conducted significant research about people with cancer and has generated evidence that is currently being translated into nursing practice.”

Dr. McMillan, who has been with USF College of Nursing for 34 years, has conducted research on pain and quality of life at end of life in cancer for more than two decades. Over the years, she has been recognized by USF as a Million Dollar Researcher with more than $12 million in National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other external funding.

ONS, an organization that promotes excellence in oncology nursing and quality cancer care, gives this award to an ONS member who has conducted or promoted research enhancing the science and practice of oncology nursing. Along with the recognition, Dr. McMillan will receive a $2,000 award, a plaque and travel reimbursement to attend the ONS Congress and ONS Fall Conference.

For related stories on Dr. Susan McMillan visit USF College of Nursing’s News Page click here.