Students from Ben Franklin Career Center earned several top awards at the West Virginia HOSA State Leadership Conference, held this week at Marshall University, according to a Mar. 16 announcement. The students competed against peers from across the state and received recognition for their achievements in various healthcare-related events.
The event is significant as it allows students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in health occupations while preparing for future careers in the medical field. HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) provides opportunities for leadership development and hands-on experience.
Among the winners were Elijah Young, who won the West Virginia HOSA T-Shirt Design competition; Joshua Pridemore, who placed second in Medical Terminology; Emmah Halstead, who took first place in Pathophysiology; Makayla Davis, who finished third in Health Career Photography; and Cameron Edwards, who secured first place in Interview Skills. Other teams also placed third in Community Awareness and Public Health categories. Brooklyn Barton was recognized as the West Virginia HOSA State Pin Design Winner.
Students who qualified through their performances will advance to the HOSA International Leadership Conference scheduled for June 23–28, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Staff members expressed pride in both the students’ accomplishments and the educators who supported them during preparation and competition.
Kanawha County Schools promotes student achievements not only in healthcare but also in art, music, and forensic investigations while fostering community connections, according to the official website. The district aims to deliver comprehensive public education from preschool through grade 12 with an emphasis on innovative and community-focused learning according to its official website. Programs such as career and technical training are offered alongside honors courses and leadership development through JROTC according to Kanawha County Schools.
Kanawha County Schools extends its educational services throughout Kanawha County in West Virginia according to its official website, featuring systems like house point programs designed to enhance student pride and leadership according to Kanawha County Schools. The district also engages with community partners on projects such as nature trail maintenance and collaborations with professional educators according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Ben Franklin Career Center students will represent their school at the national level later this year. Their recent success highlights both individual achievement and broader opportunities available through Kanawha County Schools’ career-focused programs.
