College of Health Professions supports next generation of leaders at state conference

May 13, 2025 (Volume 48, Number 17)
Article by Kennedy Scott

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More than 2,500 high school students participated in 80 events during the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) State Leadership Conference April 17–18 in Traverse City. 

HOSA plays a vital role in preparing future health professionals through education, collaboration and hands-on experience. Organizations like HOSA are essential in fostering early interest in health care careers, especially during this critical time of workforce shortages.

For the second consecutive year, the College of Health Professions was among the sponsors for the event, sending faculty, staff and students from the Grand Rapids and Traverse City campuses to support activities and speak with students about GVSU’s health programs.  

Among them was Kelly Aubry, affiliate professor of allied health sciences, who served as a judge in the physical therapy and sports medicine skills tests. The fast-paced, hands-on competition required students to demonstrate clinical techniques on mock patients under the observation of judges for scoring.

Aubry said the students impressed her. “These were high school students performing skills that I didn’t learn until my graduate-level program," she said. "The amount of dedication and practice that went into mastering these skills is nothing short of impressive.”

Patrick Smith, site director for the Traverse City Campus and assistant professor of physician assistant studies, was a judge for the HOSA Bowl, a quiz bowl-style event. Students who advanced competed in large rounds of rapid-fire questioning. 

"The passion and excitement these students have for entering health care fields is palpable," Smith said. "I left hopeful that this enthusiasm will carry forward into their education and careers.”

– Kennedy Scott is the student programming and marketing specialist for the College of Health Professions.

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