Students from the Jefferson County Vocational School’s health technologies program are heading to Nashville this June for the HOSA Future Health Professionals International Leadership Conference. This comes after their impressive performance at the state competition held in April.
During the event, which will take place at the Gaylord Opryland Convention Center, around 13,000 HOSA members will participate, attending leadership sessions and contests. HOSA is a global organization with 54 state associations and 4,500 chapters, representing countries like Canada, Mexico, and Germany.
Chapter adviser Tammy Sismondo shared highlights from the state conference held in Toledo. Kaylee Sandy secured first place in patient care, while Brooke Scharfenberg and Journey West excelled in CPR/First Aid, also taking first place. Honorae Dowdell earned third in personal care, and the school was recognized with the Gold Emblem School award for their dedication to leadership and community service.
“Our students really shined at the state competition,” Sismondo said. “Nashville will be another great opportunity for them—not just to compete, but to grow as leaders.” She added that JVS HOSA members have consistently attended the nationals, gaining invaluable experience each time.
Besides competitions and training, students will have the chance to network and visit Nashville’s iconic sites like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. This blend of competition and cultural experience will enrich their educational journey, equipping them with skills they’ll use in their future careers.
Moreover, with over 60% of students saying they feel more confident in their health knowledge post-event, the impact of such conferences can’t be overstated. Sismondo and her team are dedicated to ensuring students not only succeed in competition but also feel empowered to pursue their passions in health professions.
For more information on HOSA and its mission, you can visit the official HOSA website at HOSA.org.
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