When asked why he was interested in getting involved with his alma mater again, Carl A. Rush ’09, ’11, ’20 replied that his, “experience at Shenandoah was a top-notch experience. I chose Shenandoah because it was a place where I could receive a first-rate education and develop meaningful relationships. Serving on the board is an added benefit because it allows me the opportunity to enhance the SU experience for all students.”
Rush earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Shenandoah in 2009, a Master of Business Administration degree in 2011, and a Master of Science in Education degree in 2020. “Shenandoah has provided a strong foundation to help me achieve my career goals. I have taken the guidance of my professors and applied it to my teaching style. I have learned so much from each professor I have had in the past,” said Rush.
After graduation, he was employed as a chief of financial officer, and a finance officer with two companies in Northern Virginia. Rush now serves as chief equity officer for Loudoun County (VA) and is tasked with developing a work plan that promotes equitable, community-based outcomes where residents and employees can thrive.
In this newly created position, Rush works to assure each member of the community has full opportunity to thrive, as diversity is vital to addressing issues such as community safety, access to health and human services, education, equal employment and affordable housing. He oversees the development, design, coordination and implementation of programs, policies and practices aimed at making the county organization and community more equitable. He also works with stakeholders within the county government and in the community in support of the county’s equity goals, including identifying and eliminating any institutional policies and practices that perpetuate or bring about racial and social disparities and inequity.
Previous to his current position, he served as equity coordinator for Winchester Public Schools, a position in which he was responsible for collaboratively leading the school system’s efforts to embed inclusion, equity and diversity in its institutional practices, policies, and norms. Rush led Winchester Public Schools’ strategic diversity planning efforts, development of institutional policies, coordination of research and evaluation of infrastructure for diversity work, coordination of pipeline programs, and provided organizational leadership within the Office of Equity and Inclusion.
Rush is thrilled to be connected to Shenandoah once again, and feels it is important to give back to Shenandoah both financially and physically. “Shenandoah is a beacon in our community. Educated and informed people make strong communities, and Shenandoah provides this avenue not only for the Winchester area, but globally,” said Rush. He is excited to serve on the board, as it will allow him to help Shenandoah to continue to strive for greatness. Rush looks forward to adding this accomplishment to his long list of achievements, which include; a Shenandoah University Global Citizenship Project trip to Ghana; being a member of the Board of Directors for Handley Regional Library, the Judges Athletic Association Board of Directors, and the Historical Resources Advisory Board of Directors; and founding the Handley Investment Club and the John Handley High School Business Symposium.
As a human resources executive with a heavy focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, Rush has more than 10 years of experience partnering with mission-driven organizations seeking to advance their brand; bring diverse talent to key positions; appeal to diverse markets; design effective communications strategies for engaging diverse groups; and improve workplace culture. As a diversity and inclusion professional, Rush has developed a significant track record of transformational contributions toward organizational equity, diversity, and inclusion goals. His efforts revolve around holistically binding organizational pursuits of excellence with diversity and inclusion efforts.
His wealth of professional experience and volunteer involvement on the boards of numerous organizations and human rights advisory committees have earned him a reputation as a cultural architect able to build and sustain real and lasting change. He is extremely passionate about underserved families, groups, and communities as he believes true diversity, equity, and inclusion can only happen by way of commitment to global citizenship. Rush is a three-time recipient of the distinguished Jefferson Cup. He lives and enjoys life with his spouse, Regina, and his daughter, Lillian.