Alumni Board Specialty Spotlight: Jane Nguyen, MD, PhD

As Director of Genitourinary Pathology and a staff pathologist at Cleveland Clinic, Jane Nguyen, MD, PhD (GUPTH’18), brings analytical precision and collaborative insight to every diagnosis she renders. Drawn to medicine by the intersection of scientific inquiry and service, she has built a career centered on the power of pathology to guide patient care at pivotal moments. In her leadership role, Dr. Nguyen partners closely with multidisciplinary teams, helping translate complex microscopic findings into clear clinical direction.

A dedicated mentor and advocate for connection within the Cleveland Clinic community, she serves on the Alumni Board to strengthen relationships among graduates and give back to the institution that shaped her path. Here, she reflects on her journey into medicine, the quiet victories that define her work and the enduring value of curiosity, collaboration and kindness.

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

Q. What is your current position?
I serve as the Director of Genitourinary Pathology and as a Staff Pathologist at the Cleveland Clinic.

Q. What led you to a career in medicine?

A. I was drawn to medicine by the combination of scientific inquiry, problem solving, and service. Pathology, in particular, appealed to my analytical approach and interest in uncovering answers that guide patient care. I’ve long been fascinated by how microscopic findings can fundamentally shape a patient’s treatment path.

Q. What is most gratifying to you in your current role?

A. The most fulfilling part of my work is knowing that every diagnosis supports a patient and their care team during some of the most important moments in their lives. I value the ability to collaborate with talented clinicians across many specialties, and I find genuine meaning in being a trusted consultant who helps guide clinical decision making.

Q. What motivated you to serve on the Alumni Board?

A. I was inspired to join the Alumni Board because I deeply value the sense of community among Cleveland Clinic graduates. Our alumni network is a remarkable source of mentorship, collaboration, and shared purpose. Serving on the board gives me the chance to help strengthen those connections and give back to an institution that has shaped my career.

Q. Who are your mentors, and how have they influenced you?

A. I’ve been fortunate to learn from mentors who exemplify clinical excellence, generosity, humility, and a deep commitment to education. They have shaped how I approach complex diagnostic challenges and how I strive to lead — with integrity, kindness, and curiosity. Their influence continues to guide the way I support trainees, collaborate with colleagues, and grow professionally. One of my most impactful mentors is my PhD mentor, John R. Sedor, MD (Staff’17), whose early guidance profoundly shaped the physician and person I am today.

Q. What’s a work-related accomplishment you’re especially proud of, or a favorite Cleveland Clinic memory?

A. One of my favorite professional moments has been contributing to multidisciplinary efforts that directly improved patient outcomes — whether through complex case reviews, new workflow initiatives, or collaborative projects with clinical teams. I’m proud of the quiet but meaningful victories that happen every day: providing clarity on a challenging case, supporting a colleague, or improving a process that makes care more seamless.

Q. What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

A. Outside of work, I enjoy activities that help me recharge and stay grounded, including spending time with my family, exploring new foods and places, staying active, and cooking. My husband and two children are the center of my life outside of work — and they also ensure that my husband and I maintain a second full time job as chauffeurs. Their busy schedules keep us on the road, but those moments bring balance to my professional life and keep me energized.

Q. What advice would you share with future alumni?

A. Stay curious, stay connected, and stay kind. Medicine is constantly evolving, and the willingness to learn from others — and to support the people who come after you — is what strengthens our profession. Don’t underestimate the power of mentorship, collaboration, and community. And remember that the work you do truly matters, even on the days when it feels routine.