Virginia HOSA SLC

The VA HOSA SLC was held at the Williamsburg Marriott Hotel. 

If Shayna Mooney had to choose one word to describe the Virginia HOSA State Leadership Conference, she would choose the word exciting. The 900 members, advisers, and conference staff were full of enthusiasm, creating a lively and exhilarating atmosphere for all attendees.  The Virginia HOSA SLC was held at the Marriott Hotel in Williamsburg, Virginia, from March 11-13.

HOSA members waiting for Opening Session to begin. 

The Greenville County High School Pep Band performed a variety of musical selections to energize the crowd prior to the Opening Session Friday evening. 

The Greenville County High School Pep Band

The VA HOSA state officers kicked off the 31^st annual Virginia HOSA SLC by saying the Pledge of Allegiance and HOSA Creed.  Virginia HOSA President, Kelly Peters, introduced the 2011-2012 state officer candidates and also recognized all local chapter officers by having them stand as she recited their duties. State officers Megan Lamb, Brittany Douglas, Sabbu Bajimaya, Elena Payan, and Michaela Linkous described the symbols and colors of the HOSA emblem in order to remind members of the hope they can impart to all people through their knowledge, skills, and service. 

2010-2011 Virginia HOSA Executive Council
Left to Right: Sabbu Bajimaya, Kelly Peters, Michaela Linkous, Megan Lamb, Brittany Douglas, Elena Payan 

Shayna brought greetings on behalf of the National Executive Council and invited Virginia HOSA members to the 2011 National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, California. Recognition and awards were given to newly affiliated chapters as well as the top ten chapters for membership. The hi-light of the evening was key-note speaker, Jerry Ackerman, who inspired all members to lead, learn, and love with a positive attitude through his hilarious stories and Lawnmower Diddy dance.  The Opening Session concluded with a performance by VA HOSA Executive Council and each chapter being recognized for their HOSA spirit.

The key-note speaker was Jerry Ackerman.

The second day of the conference, March 12, marked the start of competitive events.  Many HOSA members were up bright and early to practice and perfect their speeches, skills, and presentations. Many workshops were also conducted throughout the day: “Secrets of Success”, “Respiratory Therapy as a Career”, “Public Speaking Tips”, “Working with the Dementia Patient”, “Working on an Air Ambulance” and “Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation”.  

Career Health Display

The Business Session was held in the afternoon where voting delegates voted for the members of 2011-2012 VA HOSA Executive Council, a theme to send to National HOSA, and amendments to the VA HOSA Bylaws.

Business Session

Voting Delegates

Recognition Event Awards and scholarships were presented to HOSA members and chapters, later that evening at the Dinner Banquet and Appreciation Gala.  Event managers, judges, conference staff, and the VA HOSA Executive Council were recognized for their hard work during the conference. The election results for the 2011-2012 VA HOSA Executive Council were also announced. 

Dinner Banquet

VA HOSA State Officers and Shayna Mooney during the Appreciation Gala.

Following the Gala was Fun Nite, a time when members could relax from the stress of competitive events and have fun.  Fun Nite events included a dance, karaoke, Minute to Win It games, BINGO, Corn Hole, and board games.

BINGO

Corn Hole

Minute to Win It

Karaoke

Sunday, March 13, began with the State Officer Installation Ceremony. Next, competitive events winners were announced and awarded medallions and trophies. The conference adjourned with final remarks from President Kelly Peters and State Advisor Mrs. Ann Craddock.

2011-2012 VA HOSA Executive Council

Shayna truly enjoyed the Virginia HOSA SLC and greatly appreciates Mrs. Ann Craddock, the VA HOSA Executive Council, and the conference staff for making the conference such a wonderful and amazing experience.