In Colorado, more than 2,300 students and advisors attended the HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) State Leadership Conference (SLC) on February 13-15, 2026. Representing over 76 high schools across Colorado, HOSA brings people from all walks of life together for one reason: competition and community. 

  In Colorado this year, there were over 80 events for middle school, High school, and college students to participate in. These events include 5 categories: health science, health professions, emergency preparedness, leadership, and teamwork. 

  This large community is valued by everyone at HOSA, especially when seen at the SLC.

  “I think just seeing everybody getting together for the same things is really interesting. Like, even though we’re all here for the same things, people also have different identities, like different backgrounds, futures. We’re all going down different paths. We just so happen to be here at the same time. It’s just kind of weird to think about,” Chris Styczynsky, senior at Fountain Fort Carson High School, says. 

  This love and appreciation for the competition and commitment are represented by the advisors.

  “Just seeing kids excited, it’s just completely different than the schools that make HOSA a class. These kids choose to be here. They’re not necessarily in classes, but everyone wants to be there and puts time and effort into these events. It’s just cool to see kids Excel on a different level, just the connection with kids and helping support them in whatever they want,” Ashley Nance, HOSA Advisor at CT, says

  Some students go to the SLC not just to win medals but to make long-term connections.

  “I hoped to make more connections and have fun, [at state],” Allison Watt Junior at Cherokee Trail High School says 

  These connections, in turn, benefit our community here at CT.

  “It’s like a double whammy. We do [HOSA] at CT and improve and grow our community here, but then we can also go compete and look at the stuff they accomplished.” Nance says.