This presentation explores the WSU Health Sciences Mentorship Program, a rural-focused initiative grounded in the belief that “You can’t be what you can’t see.” Launched in 2019, the program builds STEM and career identity beginning in grades 7–8 through early, sustained, and inclusive mentorship. Serving 11 rural districts, it offers a scalable framework for recruiting, training, and retaining mentors; engaging families; expanding awareness of high‑demand health careers; and measuring success beyond credentials to strengthen rural healthcare pathways.
