On Saturday, October 11, NSHSS was privileged to host a member event at Rush University in Chicago, Illinois, Named a top U.S. hospital by U.S. News & World Report, Rush University Medical Center is considered to be one of Chicago's finest academic medical centers. The university opened its doors to over 200 NSHSS members, parents, and educators who were eager to begin the day by attending a special workshop sponsored by NSHSS partner the Central Intelligence Agency. Attendees received information about high school preparation, internships, scholarships, and career opportunities within the CIA. Members also visited the NSHSS College Fair featuring representatives from top universities, companies, and organizations, such as AFS-USA Intercultural Programs, CCP College Prep Programme, American Veterinary Medical Association, the University of Florida, Fisk University, and North Park University.

The member recognition program began with a welcome by Sharon Gates, Senior Director of Community Engagement at Rush University. Ambassador Ian C. Kelly, Diplomat-in-Residence for the U.S. Department of State, followed, providing brief remarks regarding student opportunities available through the NSHSS and U.S. Department of State partnership. Michael Moreno, M.D., Chairman of Emergency Psychiatry for the Cook County Health and Hospital System, also provided insight on the journey to achieving and sustaining a successful career in the field of medicine.

NSHSS co-founder and Chairman Mr. Claes Nobel began his keynote address by prompting an ovation to commemorate the most recent recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, Malala Yousafzai, a 17-year-old advocate for a universal right to education. Mr. Nobel revealed to the scholars in attendance that they are also capable enacting great change for the betterment of their schools, their local communities, and the global community. Quoting Mark Twain, Mr. Nobel stated, “The two most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why.” Mr. Nobel believes that NSHSS scholars who continue to promote education, equality, and environmental consciousness, like Malala, may too be on the brink of “finding out why.”