Q&A with 2026 National Humanism in Medicine Medalist Dr. Deborah Trautman
Dr. Deborah Trautman
On June 8th, the Gold Foundation will bestow the 2026 National Humanism in Medicine Medals at its Gold Standard Gala. One of them will be awarded to Dr. Deborah Trautman, national nursing and health policy leader and President and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). A champion of humanism in nursing, Dr. Trautman has been instrumental in broadening the Gold Foundation’s programs to nursing students.
We are delighted that Dr. Trautman agreed to share a few of her thoughts with us on humanism in healthcare in this Q&A.
Why does humanism in healthcare matter to you?
As a proud nurse, I recognize the great impact that genuine concern for human welfare — when coupled with a knowledge of science — can have on the care of patients, families, and communities. Evidence-based practice guided by a respect for humanism is truly one of nursing’s greatest strengths. From my earliest days as a nurse, I was committed to providing care marked by compassion, respect, and empathy. In a system driven by speed, standardization, and complexity, humanism is often treated as aspirational since it requires us to slow down, listen, and honor dignity. I remain committed to preparing practice-ready nurses and creating healthcare environments where compassion is not the exception, but the standard.
Tell us about a time — at your organization or in your own life — when you felt the power of the human connection in healthcare.
As a practicing nurse and hospital administrator, I’ve witnessed firsthand that when patients feel heard and respected, they’re more likely to follow treatment plans, which improves recovery and long-term health. As the leader of a national nursing organization, I’ve seen that humanism becomes real when it’s modeled, measured, and reinforced. If leaders align culture, systems, and daily behavior, it stops being an abstract ideal and becomes the organization’s default way of operating.
How do you feel about receiving the Gold Foundation’s National Humanism in Medicine Medal?
I am deeply honored to receive this prestigious award and stand alongside the previous recipients who have inspired me to champion person-centered care and advocate for systems change. Humanism in healthcare must be protected, taught, and lived every day. The future of healthcare depends not only on innovation, but on our ability to remain present, kind, and deeply human with the patients and communities we serve. Humanism in healthcare is not the work of one individual; it is a shared commitment to seeing every patient as a person first. I share this honor with my mentors who taught me to listen, my colleagues who lead with compassion, and our patients who trust us with their care.
Looking back, is there any advice you wish you could have given yourself as you began your career?
Healthcare moves quickly, and the pressure to provide care with limited resources and time often erodes empathy. My advice to anyone starting out in nursing is to stay focused on the patient, commit to providing personalized care, and take the time needed to ensure meaningful engagement with patients. All nurses, across all roles, can play a part in improving the healthcare experience by engaging in compassionate practice.
What advice do you have for fellow leaders who are interested in embedding more humanism in their organizations?
People pay more attention to what leaders do than what they say. If you consistently listen, show respect, and make time for people — even under pressure — you signal that humanism is your organization’s operational norm. I encourage all leaders to commit to putting people first as a surefire way to help all team members find meaning in their work and feel valued. This approach will deliver results while keeping you centered and focused.
Learn more about the Gold Standard Gala, and join us in New York City on June 8th to celebrate Dr. Trautman and her fellow honorees, Dr. Leon McDougle and Mr. Stanley Bergman.
