Prairie HOSA leaders attend leadership events
Prairie Junior-Senior High School HOSA members have had exciting opportunities to develop their leadership skills, advocate for health science education, and connect with future health care professionals through two recent leadership events.
Washington Leadership Academy — Washington, D.C. | September 18–22, 2026
Lillianne Lustig had the incredible opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., with Idaho HOSA to attend the Washington Leadership Academy. As the first HOSA state officer from Prairie Junior-Senior High School, Lillianne represented both her school and Idaho HOSA while advocating on Capitol Hill for Career Technical Education (CTE) programs and HOSA, an organization dedicated to preparing students for careers in the health professions.
During her trip, Lillianne met HOSA state officers from across the country and around the world, building connections with other student leaders who share her passion for health care and leadership. She also participated in a service project, helping assemble kits for a national organization working to connect individuals in need with bone marrow donors.
In addition to her leadership and advocacy experiences, Lillianne visited several significant historical sites, including the World War II Memorial, Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. She also toured the U.S. Capitol and visited the Holocaust Museum. This experience provided a valuable opportunity to learn about leadership, public service, and the importance of advocating for programs that support students’ future careers.
HOSA BASIC Leadership Conference — North Idaho College, Coeur d’Alene | October 8, 2026
On October 8, Lillianne Lustig, Gabe DeCaria, and Ella McLeod traveled to North Idaho College’s campus in Coeur d’Alene to attend the HOSA BASIC Leadership Conference. This event focused on developing practical leadership skills that students can bring back to their local HOSA chapter.
Lillianne took on a leadership role by presenting three sessions focused on fundraising ideas, sharing strategies and inspiration to help other CTE chapters support their activities and leadership opportunities. Meanwhile, Gabe and Ella participated in four sessions centered on leadership development and effective communication. These sessions provided opportunities to learn new approaches, strengthen their leadership abilities, and connect with other HOSA members.
Prairie HOSA is proud of these students for
taking advantage of opportunities to grow as leaders, serve others, and represent their school. Through advocacy, service, collaboration, and leadership development, Lillianne, Gabe, and Ella are helping strengthen their HOSA chapter while preparing for future success in health care and beyond.