On April 15, 2014, nearly 1,700 students from around the state made Arizona HOSA part of their “Strands of Success” by attending the 2014 AzHOSA Spring Leadership Conference. The conference, hosted by the AzHOSA State Officers, was held at Westin La Paloma in Tucson, AZ. Students from Career and Technical Education programs in nursing services, sports medicine, dental assisting, EMT, therapeutic massage, pharmacy technician, medical assisting and bioscience were ready to compete and showcase their knowledge and skills. Students also had the opportunity to participate in the Medical Leadership Village, attend educational sessions and network with exhibitors.

The high energy opening sessions recognized advisors that were leaders in their schools for five years. Mr. Ryan Hamilton, CTSO Team Leader, brought greetings on behalf of the Arizona Department of Education. Mrs. Jane Shovlin, HOSA, Inc. Board Chair brought greetings on behalf of National HOSA, Inc. Board of Directors and the Executive Council. The conference included over 58 competitive and recognition events. Leadership events such as interviewing for a job, preparing and giving a speech and debating biomedical issues gave students the opportunity to sharpen their skills in these areas. High tech events such as biotechnology, dental science, nursing assisting, medical assisting, forensic medicine and pathophysiology allowed students to showcase skills they learned in their CTE programs. All this was accomplished with the support of over 100 healthcare professionals who served as judges and presenters.

At the Annual Business Meeting, the 2014-2015 State Officers were elected. These officers will attend training in April and June and host the Arizona Delegation at the June 2014 HOSA National Leadership Conference in Orlando, FL

The conference closed in the Arizona Ballroom with an exciting awards session recognizing the top five winners in each event. State winners placing 1st, 2nd and 3rd are eligible to compete at the National Leadership Conference.

Arizona HOSA – Future Health Professionals is a student led nonprofit organization that prepares students for a career in healthcare. Its mission is to provide compassionate healthcare for all. AzHOSA is committed to supporting students as they pursue their health career pathway.