LEADERSHIP

Student makes Crenshaw history

Kaitlin Galloway did not set out to make history, but that is what happens when fearless people choose to lead. Galloway, 17, is the first Crenshaw County student to hold a state officer position in Alabama’s Health and Occupations Students of America.

Her peers at this year’s state conference elected her and a panel of officials will determine which officer position she will get in the coming weeks.

The process involved a two-minute speech in front of thousands at the conference, followed by an election. Officials then interviewed her to determine which position suited her best. They will announce the decision May 8.

Galloway said the other officers hail from much larger schools, like the Alabama School of Math and Science.

“It was pretty intimidating,” she said. “I’ve been here all my life. It’s the only thing that I know.”

To prepare for the election, Galloway participated in the school’s Miss Luverne pageant. She said the pageant would also help her prepare for the Distinguished Young Woman pageant.

The 4.0 student is on Luverne’s dance team.

“I love it. I’ve been dancing pretty much all my life. You can tell your whole life story through dance,” she said.

She is also active with her church’s youth group. She goes to local neighborhoods and drives children to Sunday school. She also plays drums in her church’s music ministry.

Galloway and her brother have a puppet ministry. They perform skits they find online and plan to write original material.

Before joining HOSA, Galloway was unsure of her future. The program taught her about all of the possibilities the health field had to offer.

“Now, I know I want to go to school to become a registered nurse and work in the operating room,” she said. “I’ve been looking at Troy University because they have a really good nursing program.”

In addition to attending several meetings in her new position, Galloway will attend the HOSA National Leadership Conference and Competitive Events in California. She and other HOSA members are raising funds for the big trip.

“These events are where the best of the best of future health professionals from all over he United States will be competing,” said Crenshaw County HOSA advisor Becky Cornelius. “This will be an excellent educational experience and will allow the students to build leadership skills.”

To help send local students, make checks payable to LHS HOSA, 194 First Ave., Luverne, AL, 36049. Registration, lodging and transportation fees are due May 6.