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The health careers students at the Cobre Valley Institute of Technology (CVIT) aren’t just preparing for future careers—they’re making an impact today through their involvement in HOSA: Future Health Professionals. The international organization, formerly known as Health Occupations Students of America, provides leadership opportunities and hands-on experiences that extend beyond the classroom, empowering students to contribute to their communities while exploring healthcare professions.
For the past three years, CVIT students have participated in the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) service project under the guidance of advisor Aja DeZeeuw. This year, HOSA Chapter President Ria Das has taken the lead on the initiative, supported by DeZeeuw and co-advisor Jennifer Carlson. The project focuses on educating communities about the importance of joining the bone marrow donor registry and raising funds to support patients battling leukemia and other life-threatening illnesses, as well as the donors who save their lives.
“HOSA gives students the chance to make what they learn in class come alive,” said Aja DeZeeuw, Central Campus Counselor for CVIT. “It’s amazing to see how projects like these help them grow both personally and professionally.”
Ria, a junior at Globe High School, embodies the growth and passion that HOSA inspires. Having completed the Nursing Assistant program last year and currently enrolled in the Medical Assistant program, she is enthusiastic about the opportunities CVIT and HOSA have provided.
“CVIT really helped me take the first step,” said Ria. “I didn’t know there were so many specialties within nursing. With the help of my instructors, I’ve been able to explore what I like best and find a career path that fits me.”
For the NMDP project, Ria and her fellow HOSA members are focused on raising awareness and getting individuals to join the registry. The process is simple: eligible individuals aged 18 to 40 can register online and complete a cheek swab to determine if they’re a match for someone in need.
“Our goal is to educate as many people as possible,” said Ria. “Even if someone isn’t eligible, they might have family or friends who are. Every new registrant increases the chances of saving a life.”
The chapter has raised $267 so far, with a goal of $500 by March. Efforts include community outreach at local events such as First Fridays and the Farmer’s Market, where students distribute QR codes to streamline registration and collect donations.
The impact of the NMDP project and HOSA involvement extends beyond fundraising. Last year, Ria attended HOSA’s International Leadership Conference (ILC) in Houston, where she witnessed a marrow recipient meeting their donor—a HOSA member—for the first time.
“It put everything into perspective,” Ria said. “Seeing that moment made me realize how much of a difference we can make through HOSA.”
The ILC is just one of many opportunities available to CVIT HOSA members. Students can compete in over 100 healthcare-related events at regional, state, and international levels, gaining valuable experience and recognition. Ria’s own journey included a Family Medicine Physician competition, where she researched the career’s demands and work-life balance, ultimately winning first place at the regional level and qualifying for state.
“These competitions give students the chance to showcase their skills and learn about real-world healthcare challenges,” said DeZeeuw. “It’s incredible to see their growth in confidence and professionalism.”
With 69 students in CVIT’s HOSA chapter, the program has become a hub for collaboration and camaraderie among students from across the Copper Corridor.
“HOSA brings us closer together,” said Ria. “It’s great to connect with students from other schools who share the same goals and interests.”
None of these achievements would be possible without the dedication of CVIT’s HOSA advisors, Aja DeZeeuw and Jennifer Carlson.
“If there’s anything I’d like to emphasize, it’s the incredible passion and commitment of Aja and Jen,” said Mike O’Neal, Superintendent of CVIT. “The opportunities they create for our students are truly exceptional.”
DeZeeuw and Carlson have worked tirelessly to integrate HOSA’s mission into the classroom. Both have made HOSA projects mandatory in their respective courses—DeZeeuw for Mental Health Technician students and Carlson for Nursing and Medical Assistant students—ensuring every student has the chance to participate.
“HOSA takes education to the next level,” said DeZeeuw. “When students step out of the classroom and see the impact they can make, it changes everything.”
CVIT’s HOSA chapter continues to make its mark, currently ranking #17 in the country for NMDP fundraising. Donations support the NMDP’s vital work, including covering medical and travel expenses for recipients and donors.
With student leaders like Ria and advisors like DeZeeuw and Carlson at the helm, CVIT’s HOSA chapter is more than a student organization—it’s a force for good, proving that the future of healthcare is in capable, compassionate hands.
To help CVIT’s HOSA chapter reach its $500 goal, visit their team page here: https://fundraise.nmdp.org/team/7697.
Carissa Pool is an Arizona native who grew up in Glendale and now lives in Peoria. Carissa earned her bachelor of arts degree from Arizona State University West and in her 15-plus year career in marketing and public relations has worked with a range of clients across various industries, from construction to non-profits. While she takes great pride in her professional achievements, her greatest joys come from writing and cherishing her role as a mother to her two young daughters.
