Media Encouraged to Attend Health Careers Fair, Connecting Over 160 High School Students with Experts and Opportunities.

BISMARCK, N.D. - The University of Mary and Sanford Health are teaming up to inspire the next generation of health care professionals at the Sanford Health and University of Mary Health Careers Fair, hosted on the University of Mary campus from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Tuesday, January 28. This collaborative event aims to spark excitement and interest in health care careers among more than 160 area high school students by providing hands-on activities, expert guidance, and a close look at the opportunities available in this vital industry.

The Health Careers Fair is designed to introduce students to a variety of in-demand health care fields, including speech-language pathology (SLP), athletic training/strength and conditioning, exercise physiology, occupational therapy, nursing, physical therapy, radiology technology, and respiratory therapy. Students will rotate between interactive booths and dynamic demonstrations, gaining insights into what these careers entail, the education required, and the job opportunities available.

Each booth will feature either University of Mary faculty experts or Sanford Health providers who are leaders in their respective disciplines. They will provide informational materials, discuss real-world applications of these careers, and answer student questions. The presentations will highlight job demand, salary ranges, and the critical role each profession plays in the health care system.

"Sanford Health is proud to collaborate with the University of Mary to inspire young people to explore health care careers," said Linae Enockson, from the Leadership, Education and Development (LEAD) Center at Sanford Health. "This fair gives students the opportunity to interact with professionals and discover how they can make a difference in the lives of patients while contributing to the workforce in our region."

Students will also participate in hands-on demonstrations and activities that provide a glimpse into real-world health care settings. From learning about advanced therapy techniques to practicing nursing skills, these sessions are designed to engage and educate students in an exciting, interactive format.

Dr. Mary Dockter, dean of the Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences at the University of Mary, emphasized the importance of this partnership. "At the University of Mary, we are committed to forming compassionate, skilled health care professionals who are prepared to meet the growing needs of our communities. Partnering with Sanford Health allows us to connect with students early, inspire them to consider a career in health care, and show them the impact they can have in serving others."

This event is just one of many collaborative initiatives between the University of Mary and Sanford Health aimed at addressing workforce needs in the region. Together, these organizations are committed to equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in health care careers, ensuring communities have access to high-quality care for years to come.

The Sanford Health and University of Mary Health Careers Fair is an invaluable opportunity for students to envision themselves as future health care leaders, while gaining practical guidance on how to turn that vision into reality. Local media are invited to attend and cover this engaging event that combines education, inspiration, and the promise of a brighter future in health care.

Anyone who wishes to learn more about the University of Mary can do so at www.umary.edu or online.umary.edu, or by contacting an admissions representative at [email protected], or by calling (701) 355-8030. The University of Mary is one of only 15 Recommended Cardinal Newman Society Residential Colleges and Universities in the US.

About the University of Mary: True to its motto "lumen vitae"-The Light of Life-the University of Mary offers education for the whole of life through cutting-edge professional programs and graduate programs animated by moral courage and leadership in chosen professions and service to the community. A private, co-educational Catholic institution, the University of Mary welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds.

A Christian, Catholic, Benedictine institution founded in 1959 by the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Mary offers over 60 bachelor's, 15 master's, and five doctoral programs-in Business Administration, Education, Nursing Practice, Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy. The 19-sport Athletic Department adheres to its Greatness Through Virtue mission under the governance of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) conferences. With more than 3,800 students, Mary has locations in North Dakota, Montana, Arizona, Rome, Italy, as well as vibrant online offerings.