Rachel Brainard ’12 Champions Equity in STEM Education

Since graduating from Concordia University, Nebraska, Rachel Brainard ‘12 has dedicated her career to expanding educational opportunities for under-resourced students and families. Most recently, Brainard played a pivotal role in founding Proud to Partner Leadership Academy, a new charter high school in Oklahoma City focused on providing high-quality education and leadership development for students who have traditionally been underserved by the public school system. 

In 2025, Brainard was named an Oklahoma state finalist for the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). This honor is the highest recognition a K–12 math or science teacher can receive in the United States.

With a passion for equity and access in STEM education, Brainard has a bachelor of science degree in biology and chemistry with a minor in mathematics from Concordia University, Nebraska. She earned her master’s degree in educational leadership from Southern Nazarene University in 2024. Her leadership, dedication and innovative teaching have not gone unnoticed. In 2025, Brainard was named an Oklahoma state finalist for the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). This honor is the highest recognition a K–12 math or science teacher can receive in the United States. It is awarded by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and the National Science Foundation. The PAEMST recognizes educators who exemplify deep content knowledge, a commitment to equity and the ability to inspire students through meaningful and effective instruction. 

Brainard’s work reflects the mission and values of Concordia Nebraska—serving others through excellence, faith and leadership. Her vision for Proud to Partner Leadership Academy and her ongoing efforts to remove barriers for students are transforming lives and helping to build a more inclusive future in STEM. 

The science and math programs at Concordia University, Nebraska provide students with strong foundations in research, discovery and critical thinking to equip them for your future careers in science or math, as well as many vocations serving the community, the church and the world. Concordia Nebraska is committed to providing experiences that promote scientific inquiry and intellectual, spiritual and emotional growth.