Red Bay High School senior Savannah Shaw recently had an opportunity she will never forget.
Savannah Shaw takes a quick selfie with Gov. Kay Ivey. Courtesy photo
Shaw recently traveled to Montgomery as part of her duties as a HOSA-Future Health Professionals officer, and while she was there she had the opportunity to meet Alabama Governor Kay Ivey.
The month of February is Career Technical Month and each year Alabama Career State Technical officers from across the state travel to Montgomery for the signing of a proclamation by the Governor. Shaw was one of the students who made the trip and while she was there she was actually able to meet and have a conversation with the Governor.
“I spoke to the Governor about my future plans,” Shaw said. “She gave me good advice about going to college and working hard because over 65 percent of the workforce in Alabama in the next year will require a four-year degree, at least.”
Shaw represents HOSA as Alabama HOSA State Vice-President. Serving as a state officer is a tremendous honor and RBHS has produced other outstanding students who have served as officers in the past. Tate Ozbirn served as President 2016-2017, and Holly Hardin served as an International officer 2016-2017. Being a state officer allows Shaw to network with other students not only from the state of Alabama, but with students from across the globe. Often these networking connections lead to scholarship opportunities and eventually job opportunities.
“I was able to see a lot of my friends from other CTSOs (Career Technical State Officer) and I was able to see my HOSA executive committee,” Shaw said. “It was also very rewarding to have all of my and the other CTSO officers hard work recognized at this level.”
Shaw will represent the state of Alabama at the Alabama State Leadership Conference in Montgomery February 21-23rd. There will be a total of 21 students from RBHS competing in various healthcare events with other students from across the state. Students who place first, second, or third will have the opportunity to travel to Dallas, Texas in June to compete at the HOSA International conference.
Shaw knows her time in RBHS HOSA program is drawing to a close, but there is no doubt the experiences she has had will help prepare her for whatever future path she decides to take. She knows most kids her age never have the opportunity to meet with leaders like she has, and she is thankful.
“I would like to thank my Mom and Dad, and my advisor Dr. Hargett for always pushing me to be the best,” Shaw said. “Also, the State of Alabama and its leaders for inviting me to this event.”
