UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing has announced the return of Susan Kukic as the director of development, beginning her role on January 8, 2024.
Kukic had previously worked with the college for eight years as the director of development, where she was instrumental in securing the transformative $27.125 million gift from Ross and Carol Nese that named the college, before transitioning to Penn State Outreach and Online Education as the senior director of Development and Alumni Relations. Prior to both of these appointments, Kukic served as a director of major gifts for the Penn State College of Health and Human Development.
Kukic returns to the college in support of her commitment to the nursing community, drawn by personal motivations, as well as a sense of purpose and accomplishment in advancing student success and the nursing field in healthcare.
“The mission of the Nese College of Nursing has great appeal for me, both because my mother and two sisters were in the nursing field and because nurses play such a pivotal role in the delivery of care and the achievement of life-sustaining health outcomes,” Kukic shared. “I was the founding director of development and alumni relations for the college, and I am proud to serve as such again during this critical time of nursing shortages.”
Kukic will continue her tenure in leading the college’s development and alumni relations team, working jointly with the dean to prioritize energizing and inspiring Penn State alumni and friends in aligning their philanthropic resources with the vision and mission of the college and its many programs throughout the Commonwealth.
“It is with great joy and enthusiasm that I extend a warm welcome back to Susan,” said Dean Laurie Badzek. “Her passion and dedication to nursing have always resonated deeply within our community, and her presence brings a warmth that is comforting in both familiarity and fidelity. Together, let us continue to write the inspiring chapters of our shared journey in nursing education, guided by Susan's invaluable development insights and commitment.”