[Pharm27] Women’s History Month Spotlight: Dr. Susan Misciagno - Clinical Research

[Byrd, Kenley E]

Dear CPHS Community,
In honor of Women’s History Month, we are excited to spotlight Dr. Susan Misciagno, a distinguished member of our Pharmaceutical Science faculty.
March marks Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the remarkable contributions of women throughout history. In honor of this month, CPHS Student Affairs will be highlighting inspiring women faculty from our programs who have made a lasting impact in healthcare, science, and education. Join us every Tuesday and Thursday as we showcase their journeys, achievements, and contributions to the fields you are pursuing today.

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📌 About Dr. Susan Misciagno:

Assistant Professor

Pharmaceutical & Clinical Sciences

💡 Q&A Highlight:
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in Clinical Research?
    My background is in occupational therapy. I was inspired to pursue this career as I have several family members working in the area of rehabilitation. From a young age, I saw the difference one could make in the lives of individuals at any age when working in healthcare.  I worked as a clinician for over 15 years, gaining diverse experience in promoting independence and engagement in meaningful tasks to individuals who had experienced Autism, Stroke, TBI, Parkinson's, Dementia, and many other complex diseases. These experiences inspired me to transition into research to contribute to developing new treatments and health prevention and promotion strategies that can directly impact and improve the quality of life of older adults (particularly older Hispanics).

Q: Can you share a defining moment in your career?
    One significant accomplishment in my career is completing a terminal degree and transitioning to academia and research. Over the past five years, I have shared the knowledge I acquired in the healthcare industry while working as an assistant professor at various universities.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a woman in science, and how did you overcome them?
      I had to face several challenges as a woman, including inappropriate behaviors from patients, such as offensive jokes and gender stereotypes, affecting career advancement. To overcome these challenges, I focused on building empathetic relationships with clients while maintaining professional boundaries and ensuring treatment plans were tailored to the patient’s needs.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about working in education and mentoring students?
      What I find most fulfilling about working in education and mentoring students is the positive impact I can have on their professional, personal, and academic development. I also appreciate building long-term relationships with my students and enjoy hearing from them after graduation as we work toward a shared purpose.

Q: What does Women's History Month mean to you?
      Although Women’s History Month has been observed in the United States since the 1980s, it is a new concept for me as I was born and raised in Colombia until I graduated from college.  However, it is very significant as it provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women. I am familiar with International Women’s Day, which is celebrated on March 8th. I have had opportunities to celebrate its meaning from a global perspective while sharing the progress we have made regarding women’s rights worldwide.

Q: Is there a woman (past or present) who has inspired your career or life?
     Throughout my career and life, I have been inspired by many women. I am particularly moved by those who embody leadership roles and challenge conventional boundaries. As an immigrant, I struggled to assume such roles early in my career. These women have shown exceptional strength and have been selfless mentors, paving the way for me and other women to pursue our personal and professional goals. I admire women who promote collaboration and empowerment, uplifting their fellow women in the process.  

Q: How do you balance your professional and personal life?
      I balance my personal and professional life by prioritizing and scheduling time on my calendar for family events, reaching out to friends, and collaborating with colleagues to manage workloads effectively. I am fortunate to work with a fantastic group of individuals in the Department of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Sciences who share this value. Additionally, I have a supportive husband and a young daughter who motivate me daily to strive for improvement and to prioritize our family values.

Q: What book, podcast, or resource would you recommend to students or professionals in your field?
      I recommend Jay Shetty's podcast, "On Purpose." It features interviews with experts who help you develop your mindset and build better habits. I also enjoy Bonni Stachowiak's podcast, "Teaching in Higher Ed," where she explores the science of facilitating effective learning.

Join us in celebrating Dr. Susan Misciagno and all the amazing women shaping the future of healthcare and science. Stay tuned for more inspiring spotlights every Tuesday and Thursday!

All the Best,

Office of Student Affairs | Campbell University | College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

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