A Shared Belief in the Power of Education

Walden’s emphasis on Education for Good® makes it a perfect fit in the Adtalem Global Education family.

In August 2021, Walden University joined the Adtalem Global Education family, which includes the medical and healthcare institutions American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC), Chamberlain University, Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM), and Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM). What connects such distinct institutions is a shared mission of providing access to education that transforms lives, careers, and communities—and a desire to provide the world with diverse graduates who have the talent and skills to answer workforce needs and a passion for advancing positive social change.

Headquartered in Chicago, Adtalem has more than 10,000 employees at campuses in the Caribbean, across the U.S., and around the world. In October, Inc. named Adtalem one of 2021’s best-led companies. Forbes listed it among America’s best employers for diversity in 2021, and it was one of 2021’s top five companies in Illinois for board diversity. Newsweek named it one of the Most Responsible Companies of 2021.

The recognitions are one result of a deeply held belief that everyone should have the opportunity to thrive, no matter their circumstances. An emphasis on access to quality higher education, as well as its intrinsic connection to diversity and inclusion and to social justice, permeates the organization and its institutions.

Combined, Adtalem’s medical schools graduate more Black physicians than any U.S. school—more than 100 graduates per year. Of all the schools accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association, RUSVM educates one of the most ethnically diverse student populations. Chamberlain University is the leading granter of BSN degrees to underrepresented minority students in the U.S.

Adtalem and its institutions achieve this in a variety of ways, from partnerships with historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs), to Empower Scholarships totaling $290,500 in fiscal year 2021. The most recent recipients included 14 single parents and 32 first-generation college students. That same intentionality permeates institutional curricula because Adtalem steadfastly believes that an inclusive and equitable workforce will strengthen economic frameworks and improve societal outcomes.

That big-picture view also informs Adtalem’s social impact efforts. Similar to Walden’s Global Days of Service, Adtalem hosts a Month of Service for U.S.-based colleagues across the enterprise. Each institution also holds regular service events in their local communities. Activities range from nursing students conducting sports physicals for local schools to medical students raising awareness about the damage sunscreen can do to coral reefs. As a responsible corporate citizen, Adtalem provides support to charitable and civic organizations across the globe through both the Adtalem Global Education Foundation and corporate philanthropy.

“We are all proud to be the newest members of a strong community that is driving expanded access to education, superior outcomes, and the best from all its institutions,” says Walden Provost and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Sue Subocz. “Joining the Adtalem family honors Walden’s 50-year history, our commitment to our students and their success, and our mission of advancing Education for Good through access and social change.”