MCC Proud: Meet Rachael Baldwin

September 24, 2025

Rachael Baldwin has been the program director of the Surgical Technology Department at Monroe Community College (MCC) for the past three years.

Growing up, Baldwin wasn’t sure what she wanted to do in life. “I never thought to become a surgical technologist, but teaching was something that I always felt comfortable doing,” she said.

Baldwin began her career in the dietary department at Rochester General Hospital. “One day, I was told by a co-worker about surgical technology, so I decided to give it a try,” she said. “My very first experience in the operating room, I knew that was where I belonged.”

Twenty-four years later, Baldwin still has the same passion for her profession. In fact, she had the honor of graduating her first Surgical Technology class at MCC in May 2025, noting their 100% pass rate on the CST certification exam.

In recognition of her dedication and impact, Baldwin was honored by a student as part of the TCC Gratitude Series. The student said, “Miss Rachael has gone above and beyond this semester to make it fun, interesting, and informative. I want to give her special thanks for helping me with employment and scholarship references. She has been a wonderful teacher and mentor.”

When asked what advice she would give current students or those considering enrolling at MCC, Baldwin said, “I often tell students that this is the most rewarding career that you will ever be a part of. Perseverance, patience, and focus. Joining a multidisciplinary team of professionals who take care of patients on such a personal level before surgery gives me joy. It challenges me as well as changes lives.”

MCC’s Surgical Technology program boasts a high post-graduation employment rate, with many students securing jobs before they complete their studies.

Outside of MCC, Baldwin is active in the community. She volunteers with a non-profit organization called Eastern Service Workers. The community-based volunteer organization provides essential services to low-income workers while promoting long-term solutions to poverty.

Baldwin attended Genesee Community College (nursing coursework completed) and Monroe Community College.

Fun Facts About Rachael

Courtney: If you had to eat the same meal at least once a day, what would it be?
Rachael: Tacos or French fries
Courtney: What is your favorite movie?
Rachael: My favorite movie is The NeverEnding Story.
Courtney: What is your favorite sports team?
Rachael: Not big into sports, but I do watch football on occasion.
Courtney: What is your biggest fear?
Rachael: My biggest fear is not making a big enough impact on the world.
Courtney: Is there anything about you that people are surprised to learn?
Rachael: Usually, people are always surprised that I am a grandmother, that I watch professional wrestling for entertainment, and that I have been in this profession for 24 years.
Courtney: If you could attend a dinner with any celebrity, living or dead, who would you choose?
Rachael: There are a few actors I would love to have dinner with. Jey Uso (wrestler), Michael Jackson, and Maya Angelou.
Courtney: Do you prefer staying up late or waking up early in the morning?
Rachael: I love waking up early. The fresh air, birds singing, and the smell of breakfast.
Courtney: Share the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you.
Rachael: A friend once told me that just because you don’t receive something exactly when you want it, doesn’t mean that you won’t ever receive it… delayed but not denied.
Courtney: What destination do you hope to visit one day?
Rachael: I would love to go to Jamaica, Paris, or England (I had a childhood friend from West Sussex).
Courtney: What activities do you participate in over the weekend?
Rachael: I am a proud mother of two daughters and three granddaughters. I love spending time with family and friends. I usually reserve the weekends for my granddaughters, and we typically just hang out and watch movies.

Rachael Baldwin