Delaware students earn national recognition while building the future of healthcare

Delaware is preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals by connecting classroom learning to real-world experiences. When students have opportunities to apply what they learn, develop technical skills, and explore careers, they are better prepared for what comes next.

That preparation was on full display as Delaware students earned national recognition at the 2026 HOSA International Leadership Conference, where more than 15,000 future health professionals from around the world gathered to showcase their learning, leadership, and career readiness.

Representing Delaware's Career and Technical Education programs, 168 students, advisors, and chaperones from 19 HOSA chapters participated in the international conference, earning multiple Top 10 finishes in national competitions, national service recognition, and a historic student leadership achievement.

The accomplishments reflect Delaware's continued investment in Career and Technical Education and expanding opportunities for students to connect classroom learning with high-demand careers. They also demonstrate how students are developing the leadership, technical knowledge, and professional skills that employers across Delaware need.

"These accomplishments reflect what happens when students have access to rigorous instruction, real-world learning, and educators who help them connect their interests to future careers," Secretary of Education Cindy Marten said. "Delaware students are building technical skills, leadership, and confidence while preparing to meet important healthcare workforce needs across our state. Their success also reflects the commitment of educators, families, higher education partners, employers, and community organizations who are helping students see what is possible."

Delaware reached an important milestone when Akshaj Bais, Delaware HOSA president and a graduate of Newark Charter High School, became the first Delaware student ever elected to the HOSA International Executive Council. As Eastern Region Representative, Bais will represent thousands of HOSA members across multiple states while helping shape the future of the international organization.

Delaware students earned Top 10 finishes in six national competitive events:

• 2nd Place - Sports Medicine: Carter Kraiss, St. Georges Technical High School (New Castle County Vocational Technical School District)
• 4th Place - Healthcare Administration: Hasya Sagiraju, Newark Charter High School
• 5th Place - Dental Terminology: Sudipa Chowdhury, Newark Charter High School
• 5th Place - Medical Terminology: Friona Ashley-Davis, Howard High School of Technology (New Castle County Vocational Technical School District)
• 7th Place - Biotechnology: Carter Brown, Newark Charter High School
• 7th Place - Emergency Medical Technician: Gabrielle Thai and Shubert Wells, St. Georges Technical High School (New Castle County Vocational Technical School District)

Students also were recognized nationally for service and leadership:

• Barbara James Service Awards: Indian River High School (Indian River School District), Appoquinimink High School (Appoquinimink School District), Newark Charter High School
• Conrad Schools of Science (Red Clay Consolidated School District) raised nearly $2,000 for the National Marrow Donor Program.
• Middletown High School (Appoquinimink School District) received national recognition through the Emotional Well-Being Challenge.
• Cantwell's Bridge Middle School (Appoquinimink School District) represented Delaware in HOSA's inaugural middle school events.

These accomplishments reflect the continued growth of Delaware HOSA and expanding opportunities for students interested in healthcare careers.

Membership has grown from 1,513 students in 2024-25 school year to 1,859 students in 2025-26. Attendance at the Delaware HOSA State Leadership Conference has also continued to expand, with nearly 800 students, educators, judges, and volunteers participating this year. More than 160 students qualified to represent Delaware at the international conference.

That growth has been supported by intentional partnerships that remove barriers and create more opportunities for students. Wilmington University has hosted the Delaware HOSA State Leadership Conference for the past three years, providing the space and resources needed to expand participation while ensuring students can compete in official qualifying events for international competition.

Students qualified for the International Leadership Conference through the 2026 Delaware HOSA State Leadership Conference, held in March at Wilmington University's New Castle campus.

Delaware HOSA is the Delaware association of HOSA-Future Health Professionals, an international Career and Technical Student Organization that prepares students for careers in healthcare through leadership development, technical skill building, and service learning. As part of Delaware Career and Technical Education, HOSA helps students develop the knowledge and workplace skills needed to meet the state's growing healthcare workforce needs. For more information about Delaware HOSA, visit delawarehosa.org.

Media contact: Alison May, [email protected], 302-735-4006