Affinity Groups
There are a number of opportunities for Rush Medical College students to become involved in diversity and inclusion efforts across the Rush system.
Our affinity groups for students strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for students from all backgrounds. In collaboration with the diversity and inclusion team, these groups host co-curricular activities that raise the level of awareness and appreciation for the many dimensions of diversity at Rush.
Student Organizations
American Medical Women’s Association
The mission of the American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA) is to advance women in medicine and improve women’s health.
Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association
The RMC chapter of the Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association aims to address those issues important to Asian American and Pacific Islander medical students. The RMC chapter also promotes health education to Chicago’s Chinatown neighborhood on the southwest side.
Latinx Medical Student Association
The Latinx Medical Student Association (LMSA) was founded to represent, support, educate, and unify U.S. Latinx medical students. The RMC chapter also promotes health education to the westside’s Pilsen and Little Village neighborhoods – considered the heart of Latino Chicago.
LMSA Executive Leadership Team
- President: Alvyn Hernandez Reyes
- Vice President of Community Service: Carlos Escutia Rosas
- Vice President of External Affairs: Melinda Matos
- Vice President of Mentorship: Melissa Petito
- Vice President of Pipeline Programs: Marlene Martinez Zepeda
- Treasurer: Eliseo Vaquez
RushPRIDE
RushPRIDE is Rush’s LGBTQ+ student group. RushPRIDE organizes educational and social events, offers a forum for discussion and support regarding LGBTQ+ concerns, and provides networking and mentorship opportunities for members.
Rush Muslim Association
The aim of the Rush Muslim Association (RMA) is to strengthen the sense of community amongst Muslims, while accommodating their needs, both spiritual and academic, at Rush University.
Rush University Diversity and Inclusion
The Rush University Diversity and Inclusion (RUDI) group provides a safe and brave space for all persons at Rush to share thoughts and experiences that deal with social (in)justice, along with diversity and inclusion.
Student National Medical Association
The Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is the oldest and largest student-run organization focused on the needs and concerns of Black medical students in the United States.
SNMA Executive Leadership Team
- President: Autumn Moore
- Vice Presidents: Fatima Osman and Justin Thomas
- Secretary: Ogey Ibik
- Treasurer: Shavonne Osiakwan
- Community Service Chair: Addis Abubakar
- GPRWC Chairs: Clifvonne Webb and Makena Parker
- Mentorship Chair: Narisse Martin
- Pipeline Chairs: Eli Odukoya and Jan Powel
- SNMA Rush Liaison: Yemi Obiwumi
RUSH Diversity Leadership Groups
The Rush University System for Health (RUSH) is committed to furthering the diversity and inclusion mission across the entire system.
Diversity Leadership Council
The Rush Diversity Leadership Council ensures the development and implementation of a comprehensive diversity and inclusion strategy and those effective programs are in place to address the needs and interests of employees and students.
Racial Justice Action Committee
On Juneteenth 2020, Rush announced the formation of its Racial Justice Action Committee to combat systemic racism in the delivery of care. Comprised of administrators, physicians, students and staff from across the Rush system, the committee develops policies and action plans that create meaningful change across the entire Rush system and beyond.
Women’s Leadership Council
The Women’s Leadership Council is the driving force at the Center for the Advancement of Women in Health Care which is comprised of groups, programs and initiatives at Rush that all work toward the center’s goal of eliminating the gender equity gap in health care.