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Michigan HOSA Students Earn National Recognition at 2026 HOSA International Leadership Conference

Michigan captures 70 top-ten finishes, including eight national champions


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Ana Hornburg

Michigan Health Council

(517) 908-8229


OKEMOS, Mich.—(June 24, 2026)—Michigan HOSA students earned national recognition at the 2026 HOSA International Leadership Conference (ILC), competing against thousands of students from across the United States and around the world. The conference brought together future healthcare professionals to showcase their knowledge, skills, and leadership through a variety of competitive events focused on healthcare careers, leadership, and workforce readiness.


Michigan students delivered an outstanding performance, earning 70 top ten finishes, including 27 podium finishes and eight international championships across middle school, secondary, and postsecondary divisions.


Among Michigan's national champions were:

  • Anika Wavde and Maimoona Ashraf (First Step Career Skills) — Larson Middle School

  • Ditika Anjani Nandikotkur (Foundations of Nutrition) — Boulan Park Middle School

  • Kanishka SureshBabu (Health Career Exploration) — Boulan Park Middle School

  • William Oak (Extemporaneous Writing – Health Policy) — Rochester Adams High School

  • Anna He (Health Informatics) — Huron High School

  • Gabby Jerome (Human Growth & Development) — West Bloomfield High School

  • Aryan Khedkar (Medical Spelling) — International Academy East

  • Ahyoung Song (Nutrition) — International Academy East


Michigan students also earned eight silver medals and eleven bronze medals, demonstrating excellence across a wide range of healthcare and leadership competitions.


"These results reflect the incredible dedication, talent, and passion of Michigan HOSA members, advisors, and supporters," said Samantha Pohl, Associate Director of Michigan HOSA. "Our students are developing the technical skills, leadership abilities, and professional confidence that will help them succeed in healthcare careers. We are proud to see so many Michigan students recognized on the international stage and excited about the impact they will have on the future of healthcare."


The International Leadership Conference serves as the culmination of HOSA's competitive events program, providing students opportunities to apply classroom learning, develop career-ready skills, and connect with peers who share an interest in healthcare professions.


Michigan HOSA is administered by Michigan Health Council (MHC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Michigan's healthcare workforce through collaboration, research, and workforce development initiatives.


"Michigan HOSA continues to create meaningful opportunities for students to explore healthcare careers and develop the skills employers need," said Craig Donahue, President and CEO of MHC. "The achievements of these students demonstrate both their individual commitment and the importance of investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals. We congratulate all of Michigan's competitors, advisors, families, and schools on their success."


For a complete list of results, visit www.michiganhosa.org/conferenceresults.



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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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