As we continue to celebrate the life and legacy of Sharon Gates, DSW, Rush University is honored to announce that the Rush University Cultural Center has been renamed the Sharon D. Gates, DSW, Cultural Center at Rush University.
鈥淭hroughout her time at Rush, Dr. Gates was unwavering in her commitment to fostering a community where every student felt a sense of belonging,鈥 says Robert S.D., Higgins, MD, MSHA, president, Rush University. 鈥淪he believed deeply in the potential of every learner and worked tirelessly to ensure that each student who entered her office received the support, encouragement and opportunities they needed to thrive. Her work embodied the very heart of Rush's mission.鈥
Renaming the cultural center space after Sharon reaffirms the university鈥檚 commitment to continuing the work she started while honoring her impact on Rush University as a whole.
In addition to honoring Sharon through the cultural center, the university understands the profound importance of the Rush Community Service Initiatives Program.
Under Sharon's leadership, RCSIP experienced tremendous growth and became a cornerstone of Rush University's commitment to community engagement, service and health equity. The impact of this work reaches far beyond our campus and exemplifies Rush鈥檚 mission to improve the health of the individuals and communities we serve.
To provide continuity and maintain the momentum Sharon created, Tabari Woodson has been appointed as interim director of RCSIP.
Woodson has served as a program manager in the Office of Student Diversity and Community Engagement since 2022. During that time, he has provided extraordinary support for numerous community engagement efforts; supported signature RCSIP initiatives such as Mini Med School; partnered closely with our student affinity groups; and played a vital role in advancing the program's mission.
鈥淭abari has and will continue to provide essential leadership and support for our learners and the many communities we serve,鈥 says Debbie Martin, PhD, vice provost, Student Affairs. 鈥淗is dedication, leadership and deep commitment to our students and community partners position him well to lead the program during this transition. We are grateful for his willingness to step into this important role.鈥
We recognize that the loss of Sharon has had a tremendous impact on our community. Rush University will proudly continue to build upon her legacy. We remain steadfast in our commitment to carrying Sharon鈥檚 work forward with the same spirit of service, equity and belonging that defined her life.
If you are interested in supporting the Rush Community Service Initiatives Program, you can find information about donating, .
