It was an exciting morning as the ribbon was cut for the HEALS Lab School at Emory & Henry University School of Health Sciences! SWVA-HEALS is a high school career academy for 10th-12th graders interested in pursuing careers in healthcare. Established in 2023, the academy serves as a pipeline preparing future healthcare professionals to meet the workforce shortages in Southwest Virginia.
This is an inspiring example of collaboration among multiple K-12 school divisions in Southwest Virginia, community colleges, and institutions of higher education. The program focuses on career exploration in the many disciplines of healthcare professions -- including nursing and mental health -- with hands-on clinical skills development and shadowing opportunities. Students will work with faculty and mentors to prepare and complete an individualized college and career plan after graduation.
To learn more about SWVA-HEALS, click here: https://www.emoryhenry.edu/swva-heals/