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Seventeen high school sophomores from Chicago and surrounding suburbs spent an unforgettable day at Midwestern University’s Downers Grove Campus, as part of the STEMM Scholars Academy, a program developed by the C. 

From CPASS Scholar to Dean

The visit was spearheaded by , Dean of the Proposed College of Veterinary Medicine – Illinois at Midwestern University. A proud alumna of the CPASS program herself, Dr. Patterson was instrumental in organizing the day of learning and engagement, helping to connect students with faculty, facilities, and hands-on experiences across the University.

Thanks to her leadership, these students, who are historically underrepresented in science and medicine, received an inspiring, firsthand look at what a future in healthcare could hold. From veterinary CPR to ultrasound demonstrations, the day was packed with discovery, mentorship, and immersive exposure to careers in STEMM.

One of the program’s most inspiring moments came when Dr. Patterson welcomed the students and shared her personal journey—from participating in CPASS as a teenager to becoming one of the few Black veterinary deans in the country.

“When I was 16, I did the program just like you all are doing today,” Dr. Patterson told the students. “This program can get you where you want to go, if you keep your head down, do your work, and stick to your plan.”

She explained how Midwestern University’s graduate-level focus sets it apart and highlighted the nationwide shortage of veterinarians as one reason for establishing a veterinary college on the Downers Grove Campus. “There’s a critical need for more veterinarians—not just in private practice, but in public health, research, food safety, and rural communities that often go underserved,” Dr. Patterson said. “By creating a veterinary college here at Midwestern, we’re not only helping to address that shortage, we’re also expanding opportunities for students from all backgrounds to enter this rewarding profession.”

Dr. Patterson also introduced students to the wide range of careers in veterinary medicine, from working with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to roles in neurology, cardiology, anesthesiology, zoology, and medical research.

A Vision for Change: Big Ideas and Big Impact

The students also heard from another CPASS alumnus, , a leading voice in the intersection of race, technology, and innovation. Dr. Fouché holds joint appointments as a Professor of Communication Studies and in the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. His groundbreaking research and publications examine how science and society interact in complex ways.

“One of the things I'm doing right now is bringing people together from all around the country to write and think about interesting things,” Dr. Fouché said. “Our most recent project focused on Black boys and technology. So now it’s your turn to start thinking about those big ideas. You're at the place where people sitting in your seats have already begun changing the world.”

Hands-On Exploration of Health Professions

In addition to the inspirational talks, students took part in hands-on sessions led by Midwestern University faculty and students. Activities included:

• Ultrasound technology
• Optometry tools and tests
• Physician Assistant diagnostic techniques
• Pharmacy simulations
• Veterinary CPR

The immersive experiences helped students connect abstract classroom science to real-world applications and possible careers.

A Visit That Sparks Possibility

For Tracie Screven, Associate Director of the CPASS Foundation, the visit was more than just a field trip – it was a chance to spark a sense of purpose in the next generation.

“This is our second summer on the Downers Grove Campus, and it just creates a great opportunity for our rising high school students to get exposure to several STEM fields, specifically the health sciences,” she said. “Last year, we had students walk away with completely new career interests. I remember one student who became interested in dentistry because of what he saw here. It’s about opening eyes and possibilities.”

Midwestern University’s partnership with programs like the STEMM Scholars Academy plays a vital role in helping students from underserved communities envision themselves in meaningful healthcare careers. Through mentorship, immersive learning experiences, and access to inspiring role models, the University creates pathways to success in fields such as medicine, pharmacy, veterinary science, and more.