Centenary Medal – Tracy Truant

Dr. Truant is an oncology nursing leader who has held a variety of clinical, education, research and leadership roles over the past 30 years at local, regional, national and international levels. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with Honors, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Clinical Specialization in Oncology, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD), all through University of British Columbia School of Nursing.

In addition to contributions as a clinical oncology nurse and then educator, Dr. Truant’s subsequent roles as a Professional Practice Leader and then Director of Research, Education and Innovation at BC Cancer provided tremendous opportunities for researching and enhancing person centred cancer care.

Dr. Truant has held over $2.75 M in research funding as Co-I/PI, and her research focuses on equity within cancer survivorship care systems; cancer symptom management interventions; enhancing patient nutrition and exercise counseling by oncology nurses; complementary medicine decision making; and exploring opportunities for evolving nursing’s role to foster high quality, equitable care for people experiencing cancer.

Dr. Truant has worked nationally to develop, implement and evaluate nursing standards, competencies, guidelines and practice tools; internationally to build capacity in oncology nursing practice in Latin America using knowledge translation strategies. She recently completed her term as the President of the Canadian Association of Nurses in Oncology (CANO) where she led the advancement of strategic initiatives nationally, including establishing international partnerships and collaborations. In 2018 she was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Canadian Association of Nurses in Oncology.