MHS Students Reach Round Two at International HOSA Conference

Milbank members of HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), who qualified for the International Leadership Conference (ILC), were in Nashville, Tennessee, from June 18-22. Students from all over the world competed. More than 14,000 participants – members, advisers, health professionals, and alumni – attended the conference. Workshops, keynote speakers, and an interactive expo offered valuable learning experiences.

None of the Milbank or South Dakota HOSA students placed in the top three at the international level, but several qualified for Round Two competition. They included three students from Milbank –  Jaiden Tillotson, Marissa Botello and Kayla Schweer. MHS HOSA adviser, Johanna Fischer commented, “Our chapter has never had this many Round Two qualifiers at ILC, so this was a huge accomplishment by itself and so exciting!” 

Milbank students and their events:
Veterinary Science – Kayla Schweer
HOSA Bowl – Kenzie Kooima, Jacy Dexter, Kalli Grong, and Ashlynn Batchelor
Biomedical Debate – Ella Sandvig, Jericho Jones, and Gemma Street
Health Career Display Team – Jaiden Tillotson and Marissa Botello
Health Career Photography – Raina Untalan
Pharmacology – Claire Snaza
Pathophysiology – Siera Wenzl

During their trip, the Milbank visitors toured Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage. They explored the history and music of the area in downtown Nashville, and discovered the art in the city on a golf cart mural tour.  

The MHS group stayed at the Opryland Resort, where the conference was held. The resort features indoor garden atriums, including the Garden Conservatory and the Delta Atrium which offer lush, tropical environments with thousands of plants and flowers. The resort also features a SoundWaves indoor water park, restaurants, and shops.

“Overall, the trip was a great experience,” Fischer said.  “I am incredibly proud of the Milbank HOSA students and how well they represented Milbank. We had an amazing time and created memories that will last a lifetime. These students continue to make me so excited for the future of healthcare.”  Fischer also thanked the school, parents, and local businesses and organizations for their financial support. 

Submitted Photos