Susie Wiles Receives Woman of Valor Award from Independent Women’s Forum

Susie Wiles, President Donald Trump’s White House chief of staff, received the Independent Women’s Forum’s Barbara K. Olson Woman of Valor Award on Thursday night. President Trump delivered a surprise video tribute at the gala that praised her historic role and recent personal battle.

"Not only is Susie the first female chief of staff in American history, she's also one of the best White House chiefs of staff ever in history, I say the best, actually," Trump said in the video. " Trump spotlighted Wiles’ courage during her fight against cancer.

"It's been especially inspiring to see her courage and toughness in recent weeks as she's been winning a battle with cancer, winning it decisively," he said.

In March, Wiles announced she had been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. She received a strong prognosis after the early detection. Trump also recounted Wiles’ long service to his political efforts.

The president described Wiles as respected across the administration. "She's respected by everybody," he said. " Wiles responded to the honor in a statement to Fox News Digital. "I am deeply honored to receive the Barbara K.

The Barbara K. Olson Woman of Valor Award honors the legacy of Independent Women’s Forum founder Barbara K. Olson, who was killed in the Sept. 11 attack on the Pentagon.

The award recognizes women who demonstrate commitment and courage to advance economic liberty, personal responsibility and political freedom. Wiles is the 19th honoree. Previous recipients include Miranda Devine, Kimberley Strassel, Janice Dean, Maria Bartiromo, Betsy DeVos, Nikki Haley, Kellyanne Conway, Carly Fiorina, Ayaan Hirsi Ali and Condoleezza Rice.

Carrie Lukas, president of the Independent Women’s Forum, said Wiles is a "powerhouse of getting work done" and an inspiration. " She avoids the public spotlight and works as a behind-the-scenes enforcer. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Attorney General Todd Blanche, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and FBI Director Kash Patel attended the gala.

The Independent Women’s Forum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1992 that presents itself as an alternative to mainstream feminist groups. Fox News reported that the event underscored Wiles’ low-profile but central position in the current administration.