Students named International Champions as The River secures multiple medals, scholarship, and widespread Excellence Awards
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (June 30, 2026) — Indian River State College proudly announces that its HOSA – Future Health Professionals chapter achieved exceptional international recognition at the HOSA Global–International Leadership Conference, held June 16 – 21, 2026, at the Indiana Convention Center. Competing under the theme “Champions of Change” during HOSA’s 50th anniversary year, students from The River rose to the global stage as International Champions, earning a Silver Medal, Bronze Medal, a competitive events plaque, a $500 scholarship, an Excellence Pin, and 15 Excellence Award certificates.
The conference brought together more than 15,000 future health professionals from all 50 states and international HOSA chapters, including participants from American Samoa, Canada, China, India, Korea, Taiwan, Turkey, Vietnam, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Among more than 13,500 competitors, students from the College demonstrated excellence across healthcare-focused competitive events, academic assessments, and leadership development activities.
“This achievement reflects the dedication, discipline, and passion our students bring to their future healthcare careers,” said College HOSA leadership. “To be honored on the international stage during such a milestone year for HOSA highlights the strength of our program and the commitment of our students to becoming true champions of change in healthcare.”
Advisor Earns International Recognition
Adding to the College’s success, HOSA Advisor Emlyn Anderson received the Award of Merit – Outstanding HOSA Advisor, an international honor recognizing excellence in leadership and student mentorship. The award was presented during the Recognition Session Ceremony at Lucas Oil Stadium, where more than 15,000 attendees gathered for one of the conference’s largest celebrations.
Anderson also served for the third consecutive year as Judge Manager for the EMT, CERT, and Life Skills competitions—an appointment made by the state advisor—further demonstrating leadership and expertise at the international level.
Student Achievement Highlights
Students from Indian River State College showcased exceptional performance across multiple competitive and academic events:
- Petricia Lopilato (Jensen Beach, FL; BS Biology)
- Silver Medal, Plaque and $500 Scholarship – Biotechnology (Bio-Rad Technologies)
- Excellence Awards: Health Career Issues Exam, HOSA History, Anatomy & Physiology, Biochemistry, Genetics
- Bryn Calderon duPlooy (Palm City, FL; Dual-Enrolled CALC)
- Bronze Medal – Home Health Aide
- Excellence Awards: HOSA Happenings, Biology and Environmental Health (National Geographic Learning)
- Katie Perez (Indiantown, FL, AS Biology – Preprofessional)
- Excellence Awards: Healthcare Issues Exam, HOSA History, General Chemistry, Human Heredity (National Geographic Learning)
- Appointed Voting Delegate to the HOSA International Executive Council by the Florida HOSA State Advisor
- Earned an Excellence Pin and Award Certificate
In total, students from the College earned 15 Excellence Award certificates, underscoring broad academic achievement and mastery across healthcare disciplines.
Immersive Global Learning Experience
The 2026 conference featured 700 industry partners and judges, 175 exhibitors, and 170 educational seminars and workshops led by healthcare professionals. Due to record-breaking attendance, major events—including the Opening Ceremony, Recognition Session, and Grand Awards Ceremony—were held at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Participants engaged in hands-on clinical skills competitions conducted at healthcare and educational facilities throughout Indianapolis. Events included biotechnology activities at Indiana University Health pathology laboratories, clinical training in nursing programs, veterinary science competitions at the Indianapolis Zoo, and emergency response simulations at specialized training centers—providing real-world experiences that mirror professional healthcare environments.
Advancing the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals
The continued success of Indian River State College’s HOSA chapter reflects the College’s commitment to academic excellence, experiential learning, and leadership development in the health sciences.
“Through opportunities like HOSA, students at The River are gaining the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead in tomorrow’s healthcare workforce,” the chapter shared. “These achievements represent not only individual excellence, but also a collective commitment to service, innovation, and lifelong learning.”
About Indian River State College HOSA
The HOSA chapter at Indian River State College prepares aspiring healthcare professionals to become leaders in the global health community. Through competitive events, community service, and professional development, students gain hands-on experience and build the competencies needed to succeed in high-demand healthcare careers.
