Healthcare Organizations Invest $7,500 in New Michigan HOSA Chapters
- Ana Hornburg
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Partnerships will expand healthcare career exploration for students in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and the Upper Peninsula
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Ana Hornburg
Michigan Health Council
517-908-8229
OKEMOS, Mich.—(September 3, 2026)—Three Michigan healthcare organizations are investing a combined $7,500 to establish new Michigan HOSA chapters at schools in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and the Upper Peninsula during the 2026–2027 school year.
“At Henry Ford Health, we believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not always equally accessible. Our support of Renaissance High School's participation in Michigan HOSA reflects our commitment to ensuring young people have the experiences, connections, and encouragement they need to pursue their dreams,” said Catherine Susko, vice president of workforce planning, development, and belonging at Henry Ford Health. “By investing in students today, we are helping build a future workforce that is skilled, compassionate, and prepared to meet the evolving needs of our communities.”
Michigan HOSA gives students opportunities to explore healthcare careers, develop leadership skills, participate in competitive events, engage in community service, and connect with peers and healthcare professionals.
Through the partnerships, each healthcare organization will provide $2,500 to a school in its community:
Henry Ford Health will support Renaissance High School in Detroit.
Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services will support Grand Rapids Christian High School in Grand Rapids.
Houghton County Medical Care Facility–Canal View will support Copper Island Academy in Calumet.
"The funds will be used to participate in competitions,” said Rahmata Diallo, a student and HOSA Chapter President at Renaissance High School. “Our HOSA has bright members, and I want to showcase that through competing."
Schools may use the funding for advisor stipends, chapter materials, conference registration, travel, and other expenses associated with participating in Michigan HOSA.
“Pine Rest’s sponsorship of Michigan HOSA is an investment in the future of healthcare,” said Amy Pierce-Danders, workforce development manager at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. “By supporting students who are already demonstrating a passion for service, clinical excellence, and leadership, we are helping to build a stronger, more compassionate workforce—one that will meet the growing mental health and wellness needs of our communities.”
Representatives from Grand Rapids Christian High School and Pine Rest have already begun planning for the school year. Their initial meeting allowed the partners to discuss the new chapter and identify ways Pine Rest can help students make the most of their HOSA experience.
“When healthcare organizations invest in local students, they create meaningful opportunities for young people to see themselves in healthcare careers,” said Mark Burley, director of Michigan HOSA at Michigan Health Council. “These partnerships allow students to explore the field, develop valuable skills, and begin building relationships that can shape their futures.”
About Michigan HOSA
Michigan HOSA is a student organization dedicated to enhancing the delivery of compassionate, quality health care by providing opportunities for knowledge, skill, and leadership development among high school, post-secondary, and middle school students with an interest in healthcare. Michigan HOSA is administered by the Michigan Health Council. Learn more at michiganhosa.org.
About Michigan Health Council
Michigan Health Council (MHC) is a solutions-oriented nonprofit organization on a mission to ensure the future of the healthcare workforce. Learn more at mhc.org.
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