Rachel Boward

Research Assistant

School of Public Policy

Undergrad Institution:
University of Pittsburgh

Undergrad Major:
Sociology & English Writing

Hometown:
Pittsburgh, PA

Rachel Boward is a Graduate Assistant for the academic year 2022-2023. Originally from Moon Township, Pennsylvania, she attended the University of Pittsburgh from 2016 to 2019. In April of 2019, she completed her bachelor’s degrees in English Fiction Writing and Sociology with a focus on Social Movements and Inequality. She also completed a minor in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies at this time. During the summer of 2021, she completed a graduate certificate in Leadership and Organizational Change through Robert Morris University. Throughout her undergraduate career, Rachel participated in a number of service organizations including Alpha Phi Omega – Beta Chapter, Pitt’s Food Pantry, and the Shepherd Wellness Center.

After graduating, Rachel worked for a year and a half as an Administrative Assistant at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s Western Psychiatric Hospital. During this time, she was able to learn about the creation and management of risk-free behavioral health environments and observe the actions of upper-level leadership as they worked to provide the best care for patients across the UPMC Behavioral Health Service Line. She also participated in WPH’s LGBTQ+ Committee to assist in creating a more inclusive environment for staff and patients.

Outside of work and school, Rachel enjoys playing the flute with a community band in Pittsburgh and hopes to continue doing so in Hartford. As well, she is passionate about volunteerism, particularly for organizations with a social justice focus. In her free time between classes and studying, Rachel will continue to curate her monthly Spotify playlists.

As a graduate student, Rachel will be working towards her master’s degree in Public Administration in the hopes of obtaining a position in local, state, or federal government after graduating. Her ultimate aim is to collaborate with other service-oriented individuals to expand access to services and ensure equitable distribution of resources for systemically and historically disadvantaged populations.