When asked why he was interested in getting involved with his alma mater again, Carl A. Rush ’09, ’11 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 pursued a degree in education because he feels that as an educator, he has the ability to directly affect the next generation and how they care for our society. “I am cognizant of the fact that as their role model I am teaching my students to be good stewards of our community,” stated Rush. He believes that he not only plays a big role in the lives of his students, but that Shenandoah University continues to play a big role in his own life. “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.
Rush is currently enrolled in Shenandoah’s Educational Leadership Master’s Program where he plans to receive his second master’s degree, and resides in Winchester with his wife, Regina, and his daughter Lillian. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Shenandoah in 2009 and a Master of Business Administration degree in 2011. After graduation, Rush was employed as a chief of financial officer, and a finance officer with two companies in Northern Virginia. Rush is now an economics and finance teacher for Winchester Public Schools at Handley High School.
As imagined, Rush’s job comes with many positives and a few challenges from time to time. The most rewarding experience for Rush is building relationships with his students and providing them with instruction. “Each student is unique and equipped with certain talents and abilities. In an ever-changing era, the biggest challenge for most educators is to stay relevant. Therefore, I must provide education in a manner that is fresh, modern and stimulating,” said Rush. His goal is to assist students in discovering, enhancing and utilizing their talents and abilities to their fullest potential.
Rush is thrilled to be connected to Shenandoah once again. Rush 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.