Students Show National Promise in Health Careers

Community Contributed

Photo courtesy John Van Ornum.

By John Van Ornum

At the end of June, the Molokai High School Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) club attended the National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, California. HOSA is a student centered club that provides assistance, leadership opportunities and competitive venues to help prepare high school students for careers in healthcare.

Misty Parker was recognized on stage as she received the Barbara James Award for her service to the Molokai community. Luke Kikukawa earned a HOSA scholarship and was recognized with many other national recipients. Finally, Giesha Nunez served as a Hawaii HOSA state officer, helping to plan events and meetings for the national competition.

Additional national level competitors were Marissa Motas, Alexandria Simon, Oceana Madani, and Amber Momi Afelin. Luke and Momi are seniors who will be attend Middlebury College and Wesleyan University to pursue higher education in preparation for their respective careers.

The MHS HOSA club would like to thank Life Flight, Molokai Burger, Friends of Molokai, Rosie Davis of AHEC, and Maui Economic Development Board for their assistance and generous donations. The Hawaii HOSA delegation continues to grow each year under the leadership of Ada Toyama.