Following an appendectomy at the age of six, Susan Ruppert, PhD, APRN, was inspired by the care she received from nurses to pursue a career in nursing. Today, Ruppert is the PARTNERS Endowed Professor in Nursing and associate dean of Graduate Studies at Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston. Her career spans decades and includes numerous publications and teaching hundreds of students.
Ruppert's journey began in Illinois as a first-generation college student with blue-collar working parents. She attended Illinois Valley Community College before transferring to Northern Illinois University for her bachelor's degree in nursing. She furthered her education with a master's degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and a PhD from Texas Woman’s University in Houston.
Her decision to join UTHealth Houston was influenced by a former faculty member who highlighted the opportunities available there. "She really sold me on the opportunities at UTHealth Houston," Ruppert said. Now, after 35 years, she is being recognized during the STAR Award luncheon for her service.
Ruppert has been involved in various roles including maintaining a faculty practice, serving on nursing leadership boards, and being a certified family nurse practitioner. Her accolades include the 2025 Chancellor’s Alumni Excellence Award from Texas Woman’s University and many others such as the Piper Professor Award and induction into The University of Texas Kenneth I. Shine Academy of Health Science Education.
Outside work, Ruppert enjoys family time with her two children and five grandchildren, traveling to places like Italy and Greece, and volunteering with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Reflecting on her career, Ruppert advises future nursing professionals: “You have to be flexible,” she said. “Change is always going to happen... What does not change...is the dedication in providing the highest quality education to students and healthcare to our patients."
