Creating Pathways and Access for Student Success Foundation™
We aim to increase underrepresented Illinois students in major healthcare and related STEMM professions by providing the strongest educational foundation and access to resources.
Our Programs
CPASS Mini-Medical Schools
Fourth and fifth grade students perform cool experiments and learn about the body and its systems in Rush Mini-Medical School.
STEMM Scholars Academy
The STEMM Scholars Academy offers a free 5-week STEMM program for high school students, providing academic and holistic development, networking with professionals, and college prep resources.
Chicago Area Health and Medical Careers Program™ (CAHMCP)
CAHMCP (“Champs”) gives underrepresented high school and college students the knowledge and support they need to pursue medical careers.
*KICK-OFF ANNOUNCEMENT AS WELL AS MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON
Use our search tool to find STEMM programs near you in the areas that you’re interested in.
STEMM Education
Study Tips for STEMM Students [Guide]
What Our Alumni Say
Eric Whitaker, MD, MPH
Chair, CPASS Foundation
“Until CAHMCP, I was not supported in my dream of becoming a doctor. It was an eye-opening experience to be with students of color who all valued education.”
Laura Lucero, MD
Family Practice/Chief Medical Officer, Beloved Community Family Wellness Center
“I’ve never studied so hard, tried so hard. I was in that anatomy course all day long. I finally got into medical school a year later.”
Mildred M. G. Olivier, MD
Professor of Ophthalmology and Assistant Dean for Diversity and Learning Environment, Chicago Medical School of Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
“CAHMCP gave me a group of friends I studied with in medical school, and we tried to be the best that we could be.”
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News & Events
News
Welcome Damond Hayes as Program Manager for the CPASS Foundation!
Damond Hayes, a Chicago native and first-generation college graduate, joins the CPASS Foundation as Program Manager, bringing with him a wealth of experience in youth mentorship, program leadership, and community development. Damond earned his undergraduate degree...
CPASS Foundation Honors Dr. Trevonne M. Thompson with 2024 John Bradley Award for Inspirational Leadership
Press Release: CPASS Foundation Honors Dr. Trevonne M. Thompson with 2024 John Bradley Award for Inspirational Leadership. Dr. Thompson, a professor of Emergency Medicine and Medical Toxicology at the University of Illinois Chicago, is recognized for his exceptional work in promoting diversity in STEMM fields. His leadership and mentorship have profoundly impacted underrepresented students pursuing careers in medicine. The award will be presented at the Annual STEMM Pathways to Health Equity Breakfast on October 5, 2024.
Events
Reflecting on the Success of the CPASS Foundation’s Annual STEMM Pathways to Health Equity Breakfast
The CPASS Foundation hosted its Annual STEMM Pathways to Health Equity Breakfast, bringing together passionate individuals committed to advancing health equity in our communities. This event provided a platform for meaningful discussions and innovative strategies...
CPASS Foundation presents a fireside chat with Dr. Michael Eric Dyson
A fireside chat and live Q&A moderated by Dr. Michael Eric Dyson focusing on the lack of representation of Black males in medical schools.
The Blog
CPASS Foundation’s STEMM Scholars Program Takes On Midwestern University To Explore Healthcare Careers Hands-On
This summer, our CPASS Foundation STEMM Scholars Academy gave high school sophomores an exciting glimpse into the world of healthcare during their visit to Midwestern University’s Downers Grove Campus. Designed to empower racially and ethnically underrepresented...
Welcome Brittany Nunez as Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist for the CPASS Foundation!
Brittany Nunez is a seasoned marketing professional with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, concentrating in Marketing, from Iowa Wesleyan University in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. As a first-generation college graduate, Brittany brings over eight years of...
Welcome Asia Lawrence as Program Director for the CPASS Foundation STEMM Scholars Academy!
Asia brings a unique background to his role as Program Director for the CPASS STEMM Scholars Academy. As a first-generation college graduate, he obtained his bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Georgia State University and expanded his knowledge in Logistics...