2010 Washington Leadership Academy Day 4

 

  
     Washington D.C. is the city of advocacy. As HOSA members love to share their passion about health care and education, congressional visits are a rewarding part of Washington Leadership Academy. During the final day of HOSA University, state officers and advisors met on Capitol Hill.

HOSA members visited their respective congressional districts to create awareness about Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) and Career and Technical Education (CTE).  HOSA officers also got a firsthand look at the legislative process as they shared bill HR2946 with their congressmen and women. HR2946 is a heath professional pipeline act that would provide funding for health education and address the critical healthcare shortage of the United States. Talk about amazing professional networking experiences!

Arizona State Officers

     Following the individual congressional meetings was a conference in the U.S. Capitol Building, where special guests joined the delegation of HOSA members. Special guests included:

George Sifakis, Government Relations
Congressman Charles Gonzales and Julie Hart, Health LA
Michele Chin, Health LA, from Senator Cornyn’s Office
Theresa Vawter, Health LA, from Congresswoman Kay Granger’s office
 Corina Barrow, Military Nurse Fellow, from Senator Daniel Inouye Commander’s office
Erica Schwartz, Coast Guard
James Paluskiewicz, Health LA, from Congressman Michael Burgess’ office
Rachel Evans from Congressman Tierney's Office
Stuart Chapman, Chief of Staff, from Congressman Zach Space’s office

Each speaker expressed the need for healthcare education and commended HOSA for the efforts made to address those needs. They also discussed the opportunities and rewards available in the health field for driven and passionate students. The guests’ words were truly inspirational and much appreciated by the HOSA delegation.


     As the day neared its end, HOSA members departed. Bittersweet were the moments as the quest for leadership in Washington ended. It was sad to leave D.C. and new friends. However, realizing the gained leadership skills, experience, and HOSA enthusiasm made members feel revamped for the year ahead. Besides, the HOSA family can always stay connected through future conferences…and Facebook!