Two Students Advance to National Competition!

Pomperaug High School (PHS) students demonstrated outstanding achievement at the Connecticut HOSA Spring Leadership Conference, held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Waterbury Career Academy. The conference brought together more than 600 students from across the state, all with a shared interest in pursuing careers in healthcare.

Eight PHS students participated in the first round of competitive events, completing rigorous assessments in areas such as Medical Terminology, World Health & Disparities, Pharmacology, Medical Math, and Nursing Assisting.

Five students also attended the full conference experience, participating in workshops and learning sessions throughout the day:
Ava Abrilla, Prisha Mathur (President of Pomperaug HOSA), Vivaan Nalla, Sathya Pedapudi, and Katherine Salsbury.

National Qualifiers

The highlight of the event was an exceptional performance by Katherine Salsbury, who earned 1st place in the Prepared Speaking event, qualifying her to advance to the HOSA International Leadership Conference this June in Indianapolis, Indiana.

In addition, Prisha Mathur, president of the Pomperaug HOSA chapter, was recognized as a runner-up in the World Health & Disparities event, also earning the opportunity to compete at the national level this summer.

L-R: Vivaan Nalla, Katherine Salsbury, Ava Abrilla, Prisha Mather (PHS HOSA Club President), Sathya Pedapudi, and Mrs. Joanne Gilland, PHS Club Advisor

Real-World Learning Experiences

In addition to competitions, students participated in hands-on workshops and heard from industry professionals. Sessions included skills such as endotracheal intubation and CPR, providing valuable exposure to real-world healthcare practices and career pathways.

“It was a great day for our students,” said Joanne Gilland, HOSA advisor at PHS. “I am so happy they had the opportunity to attend this state conference and connect with so many peers who share an interest in pursuing careers in healthcare. From hands-on workshops like endotracheal intubation and CPR to the competitive events, it was an incredibly meaningful experience. I am especially proud of both of our national qualifiers—Katherine Salsbury for her outstanding first-place performance in Prepared Speaking, and Prisha Mathur for her success in World Health & Disparities. They have represented Pomperaug High School and our entire Region 15 community with excellence. I also want to recognize Prisha’s leadership as chapter president, guiding and preparing our members for both the competitions and the overall experience.”

About HOSA

HOSA–Future Health Professionals is an international student organization dedicated to empowering future healthcare leaders through education, collaboration, and hands-on experiences. Participation in HOSA provides students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, explore healthcare careers, and compete in events that reflect real-world medical knowledge and practice.