Ascension Foundation Hosts #GOALS Program for Detroit Middle School Students

In a healthcare landscape facing critical clinician shortfalls and increasing patient needs, programs that encourage students to consider careers in the industry are no longer just simple enrichment opportunities. They are essential investments in the future of our workforce

The Ascension Foundation's flagship program, #GOALS (Go Out and Love Science), is designed to introduce middle school students to careers in healthcare and the educational pathways required to pursue them. The program connects participating middle school students with medical students and professionals and highlights the support available to help them achieve their career goals.

Last month, the Ascension Foundation and Ascension Community Impact hosted #GOALS in Detroit for the third time, welcoming more than 200 middle school students from three Detroit Public Schools. The event, held in partnership with host campus Wayne State University School of Medicine, was supported by 85 volunteers from Wayne State and Ascension.

#GOALS encourages students to consider futures in healthcare through hands-on learning and direct engagement with medical, dental, and other health sciences students and professionals.

"Programs like #GOALS are about more than sparking interest," said Dr. Stacy, Garrett-Ray, Senior Vice President and Chief Community Impact Officer. "They're about opening doors. When students can see themselves in these roles and understand the path to get there, we're not just inspiring them, we're helping build the future of healthcare."

As executive sponsor of the program, Dr. Garrett-Ray plays an active role throughout each event - from welcoming students at the start of the day to offering encouragement as they move through hands-on activities - helping bring the program's mission to life in a tangible way.

Students learned CPR and performed chest compressions to songs with the perfect beat count per minute, used an ultrasound machine to see the soft tissue in their wrists, and conducted a chemistry experiment using common household items to create "Elephant Toothpaste." Students also practiced suturing techniques using bananas, with Ascension physicians like Dr. Jennifer Frink, Associate Vice President of Clinical Service Lines, providing guidance.

Post-event survey results showed a positive impact. The percentage of students who reported liking science "a lot" increased from 33% when measured before the event to 46% after its conclusion. More students also indicated they could envision themselves becoming a doctor or pursuing another career in healthcare. To understand the lasting impact of #GOALS, the Foundation is following participants through a longitudinal study conducted by researchers at Notre Dame University.

The Detroit event is one of the #GOALS programs taking place across Ascension's footprint this year, as the Ascension Foundation continues to expand access to early exposure opportunities in healthcare. To learn more about the Foundation's work, follow the Ascension Foundation on LinkedIn or visit https://www.theascensionfoundation.org.