Education’s critical role in building stronger, healthier communities is why Rush has worked to support schools and increase educational equity for more than 30 years. Through REACH, we create equitable pathways to college and careers by providing enrichment programming that helps students build skills for success in school and the workforce: communication, collaboration, critical thinking, creativity and leadership.
Our Mission & Vision
Mission
The Rush Education and Career Hub (REACH) provides innovative, hands-on STEM learning for underrepresented students from cradle to career, to increase postsecondary achievement and diversity in health care and STEM professions.
Vision
We are developing a diverse talent pipeline for the health care workforce of the future.
Our Legacy
Reginald “Hats” Adams
(1940-2015)
In 1990, Reginald “Hats” Adams, who led Rush’s Department of Community Affairs, developed the Science and Math Excellence (SAME) Network in response to the low science, math and reading test scores in public schools surrounding Rush on the West and Southwest sides of Chicago.
In 2017, SAME transitioned and transformed into REACH as part of Rush’s broader strategy to be a catalyst for community health and economic vitality. Today, REACH leads education and career outreach across the Rush system for students in pre-K through college.
Rush Education & Career Hub Approach
REACH is part of Rush’s Office of Community Health Equity and Engagement (CHEE). CHEE’s mission is to enable and support Rush University Medical Center in fulfilling its commitment to improve the quality of life within Rush’s diverse neighboring communities through initiatives and partnerships.