Rukhsana epitomizes the qualities of compassionate service for her patients, families and colleagues. She is an exceptional APRN who functions with remarkable leadership, administrative and clinical qualities. She led an initiative to develop a sustained international partnership to advance a nursing education program in Afghanistan. For this program she obtained grant funding for development, evaluation and monitoring. There are countless examples of Rukhsana's holistic care for her seriously ill patients.

One particular case involved a child having post-transplant issues with engraftment, respiratory and hepatic complications. His treatment required frequent medication changes, scheduling of biopsies, ordering PT/OT services at local facilities, along with caring for his mom who was a new RN. She ensured all needs were met for this patient and education was communicated clearly and effectively to parents and child. As a result of this seamless, coordinated and effective care, this child is responding to treatment and headed to Hawaii for his Make-A-Wish trip.

Rukhsana works tirelessly for her patients. Her expectations for service are superior and typical of her work ethic for all of her patients. She performs all this and more while attending doctoral education. She is a lifelong learner and raises the paradigm for excellent service.