Excellence in Clinical Engagement Award, 2025
College of Health and Human Services
Rush exemplifies the qualities the Excellence in Clinical Engagement Award recognizes. Throughout her 29-year career at UNH, she has not only fostered the development of future social work professionals in our programs but has also been an invaluable asset to the broader social work community in New Hampshire. She provides exceptional mentorship to both students and internship supervisors, facilitating strong, supportive partnerships that result in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. Her ability to troubleshoot challenges, mediate conflict, and adapt to the evolving needs of both students and agencies has been a hallmark of her leadership.
For the past decade, Rush has partnered with community mental health centers throughout New Hampshire to provide training to support workforce needs and offers workshops on ethical practice through the New Hampshire Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers each year. These critical consultations and training sessions strengthen the practice of social workers throughout our region, ensuring that the field remains dynamic and responsive to evolving community needs.
Rush is deeply invested in the success of College of Health and Human Services (CHHS) students, continually demonstrating genuine care for their growth and development. She maintains a small private practice, which ensures that she remains current on contemporary approaches to engaging and working with clients. Her students greatly appreciate her ability to connect theory and practice with real-world examples drawn from her decades of professional practice.
About this Award
This award acknowledges and honors a member of the UNH faculty who has demonstrated a record of excellence in clinical engagement. This award is based on the quality integrated within the educational and practicum-based training of students in clinical-based professions, teaching, caring about students, and devotion to the university community. Recipients of this award are members of the university faculty who have provided leadership and a demonstrated record of achievement in clinical activities, teaching, and service. Award winners contribute both on-campus and off-campus in the broader chosen professional arenas in which the faculty has valued expertise. This award will be presented annually to a UNH benefits-eligible faculty member, excluding faculty that have received this award within the last five years.
