Susie Wiles wins IWF Barbara K. Olson Woman of Valor Award

FIRST ON FOX: Susie Wiles, President Donald Trump’s White House chief of staff, received the Independent Women’s Forum’s Bravery Award Thursday evening as the president honored his longtime aide with a surprise video tribute.

“The good woman is Susie, when I think about it. Susie is not only the first female chief of staff in American history, but she is also one of the best White House chiefs of staff in history, I say the best, in fact. I am extremely grateful for her friendship, her loyalty and her support every day. She is a true professional,” Trump said in the video message, which was shared with Fox News Digital, to Wiles Thursday evening during the ceremony.

The award honors the legacy of Independent Women Forum founder Barbara K. Olson, killed in the September 11 attack on the Pentagon, and recognizes women who demonstrate commitment and courage to advance economic freedom, personal responsibility and political freedom. Trump spotlighted Wiles who made history as the first female White House chief of staff, following a long career in Republican politics and key roles in Trump’s 2016 and 2020 campaigns.

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White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles has been named the Independent Women’s Forum 2025 Woman of Valor Award winner for advancing freedom and opportunity. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)

“I am deeply honored to receive the Barbara K. Olson Woman of Valor Award. Her strength, courage, and deep love for our country are an inspiration to so many. I am privileged to serve President Trump, our administration, and my dedicated colleagues who fight every day to protect freedom, expand opportunity, and strengthen the lives of American families,” Wiles told Fox News Digital in a statement.

“This award is not only a personal honor but a reflection of this shared mission, and I am grateful, honored and more committed than ever to continuing this work,” added Wiles.

Trump continued in his surprise message at Thursday’s gala, saying she had been an inspiration in his fight against cancer.

“It’s been especially inspiring to see her courage and tenacity in recent weeks as she won a battle against cancer, decisively. It was an early diagnosis, so she’s going to be in great shape. Susie has played a key role in each of my presidential campaigns, but especially in 2024 or when she helped lead us to perhaps the most important election victory in modern times,” Trump said.

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“This award is not only a personal honor but a reflection of this shared mission, and I am grateful, honored and more committed than ever to continuing this work,” Wiles said. (Brendan Smialowski/AFP)

“Everything we have done here at the White House has been done with her help and leadership. She is respected by everyone. Every one of these people respects Susie. We have a problem. I say go to Susie, we owe her a huge debt and what she has done is just incredible for our country. Thanks to Susie and congratulations,” he added.

In March, Wiles announced that she had been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer during early detection and given a grim prognosis. She said she now joins the many women living with breast cancer who continue to raise their children, go to work and serve their community.

Wiles was nicknamed the “Ice Girl” by Trumpwhich he highlighted in his 2024 victory speech, for his uncompromising approach to political management. Wiles avoids the public spotlight, instead working as Trump’s henchman behind the scenes at the White House.

Carrie Lukas, president of Independent Women, said in a statement to Fox News Digital that Wiles is an inspiration and a “force to get the job done,” which makes her a force to make “America’s future days bright.”

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Trump recorded a surprise message for the gala, calling her “one of the best White House chiefs of staff in history.” (Annabelle GORDON / AFP via Getty Images)

“Wiles was instrumental in President Trump’s victory and continues to keep the administration focused on delivering results. Her impact is enormous, even if she rarely seeks credit, and that’s exactly why it’s so important to honor her,” Lukas said.

Wiles is the 19th recipient of this award, joining previous recipients including Miranda Devine, Kimberley Strassel, Janice Dean, Maria Bartiromo, Betsy DeVos, Nikki Haley, Kellyanne Conway, Carly Fiorina, Ayaan Hirsi Ali and Condoleezza Rice.

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She got a show of support from the Trump administration in the presence of several cabinet members. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Attorney General Todd Blanche, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Energy Secretary Chris Wright and FBI Director Kash Patel were all in attendance.

The Independent Women’s Forum, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded in 1992 and presents itself as an alternative to traditional feminist groups.