Carl Rush was voted "Most Popular" by the Class of 1997.  His journey at Handley was marked by his talent as a three-sport athlete and a member of the 1994 State Championship football team. His accolades extend to Track and Field, where he earned a state medal.

Carl completed his undergraduate studies, earned a Master of Business Administration, and achieved a Master of Education Administration from Shenandoah University.

Carl served as a former educator and administrator for Winchester Public Schools. His impact on the educational landscape of Winchester speaks volumes about his dedication to shaping the future of the community. Carl's leadership in this capacity contributed to the nurturing and development of students, leaving an indelible mark on the trajectory of their lives.

Currently serving as the inaugural Chief Equity Officer for Loudoun County, Carl Rush stands at the forefront of addressing critical issues facing the region. As the Chair of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG) Chief Equity Officers' Committee, he regularly participates and brings leaders together to develop solutions to the region's major challenges such as regional housing, regional greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal, and transportation and equity planning concepts to inform future growth and investment decisions.

Carl's dedication to community engagement is not confined to his official roles. A graduate of the UVA Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service Senior Executive Institute and an active member of organizations like the Winchester Education Foundation, Laurel Ridge Foundation, Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the Virginia Local Government Management Association (VLGMA), and the National Forum of Black Public Administrators (NFBPA), he deeply involved in shaping the discourse around public service.

Carl has been an active participant in the Winchester and Loudoun County communities. His involvement with the National Association of Counties (NaCo) Professional Leadership Academy and the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors underscores his commitment to mentoring and fostering the next generation of leaders.

Carl credits the influential role played by individuals such as his parents (Leslie and Carolyn), Tommy Dixon, Phil Dyett, Terry Furman, and Russ Potts. These mentors and figures have contributed significantly to shaping Carl's character and instilling in him the principles that have guided his journey to success.

However, the most profound impact on his life comes from his wife, Regina