Premier Health, Wright State University and The Perry Initiative Inspire Future Healthcare Leaders Through Hands-On Orthopaedic Program

DAYTON, Ohio (Sept. 17, 2026) – Premier Health, the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, and The Perry Initiative are partnering to host the Perry Outreach Program, a free, one-day experience designed to introduce high school students to careers in orthopaedic surgery and engineering through hands-on learning, mentorship, and career exploration.

The program reflects a shared commitment to education, workforce development, and preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Forty high school juniors and seniors will participate Sept. 19 in interactive activities demonstrating how medicine and engineering work together to improve patient outcomes while learning about educational and career pathways.

"Orthopaedic surgery combines innovation, engineering, and patient care in a unique way," said Norah Foster, MD, orthopaedic surgeon with Premier Health. "By giving students hands-on experiences and connecting them with physicians, medical students, and mentors, we're helping them see what's possible for their future."

Similar to Premier Health's Orthopaedic Externship Program, the Perry Outreach Program seeks to increase awareness of orthopaedic surgery and engineering among students from groups historically underrepresented in those fields. Through mentorship and hands-on experiences, participants gain exposure to careers they may not have previously considered and a firsthand look at the skills and training required to pursue them.

The program also provides a unique leadership opportunity for medical students. Fifteen first- and second-year students from the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine will complete specialized training through The Perry Initiative before serving as instructors and mentors during the event. The experience strengthens their teaching and leadership skills while providing valuable exposure to orthopaedic surgery early in their medical education.

“Early exposure to healthcare careers can make a meaningful difference in helping students recognize themselves as future physicians, engineers and other healthcare professionals,” said Raj Mitra, MD, dean of the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine and chief academic officer at Premier Health. “Our medical students gain valuable teaching and leadership experience as mentors, and these opportunities help prepare both groups to help meet the needs of our region.”

Participants will take part in workshops led by Premier Health orthopaedic surgeons, Wright State medical students, and representatives from The Perry Initiative. Students will perform mock orthopaedic procedures, learn basic surgical techniques, and participate in biomechanics activities that highlight the intersection of engineering and patient care.

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