Hosa - Future health professIONAls

Illinois Association

Welcome to the 2026 Illinois hosa
state leadership conference!

Welcome to the 2026 Illinois HOSA State Leadership Conference! We are excited to bring together members, competitors, advisors, partners, families, and alumni from across the state of Illinois.


This conference is a time to celebrate your chapter’s accomplishments, showcase your skills in competition, and connect with future health professionals from across the state.


Below you will find important resources to help you navigate the conference and make the most of your experience.


Your chapter advisor is your primary resource throughout the conference. If questions arise, please communicate with your advisor first. Advisors may visit Conference Headquarters located in the BOS Center lower level for additional support.


We wish all competitors the best of luck and look forward to an inspiring and successful conference.

Conference Schedule

Conference
Map

Shuttle infoRMATION

Professional Attire

Educational
Symposiums

Resource

U.S. Army ROTC – 2026 Conference Sponsor

Illinois HOSA is proud to partner with the U.S. Army ROTC, a strong supporter of leadership development and career exploration in healthcare and STEM fields. Through programs like Army ROTC, students can build leadership skills while pursuing their college education.


Army ROTC scholarships help cover the cost of college while preparing students to become leaders in their communities and future careers.


👉 Learn more about Army ROTC Scholarships and how you can pay for college while gaining valuable leadership experience.

Dates: Wednesday, March 18 - Friday, March 20th, 2026

Location: BOS Center, Springfield IL: Venue Address: 1, Convention Center Plaza, Springfield, IL 62701

Conference Registration Fees

    • In-person attendance: $100
    • Virtual Attendance: $75

Registration Deadline: February 1st


Please complete online registration form and send your check to: 

Illinois HOSA PO Box 46018 Chicago IL 60646

Competition Timeline: 

  1. SLC Registration Deadline: Feb 1st
  2. SLC Round 1 testing and event project submissions to be held/submitted Feb 23-27th (Testing will be proctored)
  3. SLC Round 2 will take place down in Springfield on March 18-20th


SLC Round 1 Testing Schedule: 

We’re streamlining the testing and project submission process to make it even more convenient for you. Here’s what you need to know:


🖥️  Testing Schedule:

  • 📅 Dates: Monday, Feb 23rd – Thursday, Feb 26th
  • ⏰ Time: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • 📨 Login Information: Competitors will receive their login credentials via email. Be sure to check your spam or junk folder for an email from "onlinetesting@apps.hosa.org."


💡 Trouble Logging In?
If you encounter any issues accessing your login, reach out to your advisor for support.


📤 Project Uploads:

  • 📅 Submission Deadline: Online submissions will be uploaded to the HOSA Digital Upload System. Event materials need to be submitted no later than Friday, February 27th by 3:00 PM
  • 📨 Submission Links: Competitors will receive a unique project submission link via email. Be sure to check your inbox (and spam folder) for this link to ensure timely submission.


What events require an upload?


For team events only ONE team member will upload the required materials.  

The following individual and team events require a digital upload:

      • Clinical Specialty - Career Portfolio
      • Community Awareness - Portfolio
      • Family Medicine Physician - Interview Verification Form
      • Health Career Display - Digital Health Career Display Outline
      • Health Career Photography - Photography Portfolio (as 1 pdf)
      • Health Education - Portfolio (as 1 pdf)
      • Interviewing Skills - Personal Statement & Resume; Accommodation Form (as 1 pdf)
      • Job Seeking Skills - Personal Statement & Resume (as 1 pdf)
      • Medical Innovation - Innovation Outline (as 1 pdf or publicly viewable link)
      • Mental Health Promotion - Digital Files, Consultation Form & Reference page (as 1 pdf)
      • MRC Partnership - Portfolio (as 1 pdf)
      • Public Health - link to Video Trailer
      • Public Service Announcement - Reference page, Copyright form, Brain Health Certificates, and Airdate Form, (as 1 pdf), separate Video link 
      • Researched Persuasive Writing & Speaking - Written paper (as 1 pdf)
      • Research Poster - Research poster (as 1 pdf)
      • Respiratory Therapy - No upload for SLC - Round 2 only at SLC


Barbara James hours must be submitted by 3:00pm on Friday, February 27.


Stay organized, double-check your email, and let your advisor know if you have any questions. Good luck as you prepare to showcase your skills and talents! 🚀


SLC Round 2 Testing Schedule: 

The State Leadership Conference Schedule will be released after Feb 1, 2026. Check back later for more information. 


💡 Need Help?

  • Start by reaching out to your chapter advisor for any questions or concerns.
  • If your advisor cannot address your unique questions, they can email us directly for further assistance.

The official 2026 SLC Qualifier list has been sent to chapter advisors! Be sure to connect with your advisor to find out if you’ve qualified for the upcoming State Leadership Conference. The final list of qualifiers will be posted on our website after January.

Illinois HOSA Code of Conduct & Medical Liability Forms

All students attending the Illinois HOSA State Leadership Conference are required to review, sign, and submit the Code of Conduct and Medical Liability Release forms before arriving at the conference.


These forms outline expectations for professional behavior, safety, and participation during all conference activities. They also ensure that advisors have the necessary information to support student wellbeing throughout the event.


Please complete all required signatures and return the forms to your chapter advisor by the deadline.
Signed forms are mandatory for entry into the State Leadership Conference.

SLC ROund 1 & Round 2 Event Guidelines

For the State Leadership Conference, both Round 1 and Round 2 testing and project submissions will follow the National HOSA Guidelines.


Download the guide below to identify the correct event guidelines for your competition. Be sure to review all event details carefully and stay updated on submission requirements.


Work closely with your chapter advisor throughout the process — they are your best resource and can help ensure you’re fully prepared for your competitive event.

Voting Delegates

Each chapter is allowed to have voting delegates to represent the chapter at SLC.  The number of delegates is determined by membership:

1 - 25 members = 1 voting delegate

26 - 100 members = 2 voting delegates

101 - 300 members = 3 voting delegates

301 - 500 members = 4 voting delegates

Interested in Joining the Next Illinois HOSA State Officer Team?

Ready to lead, inspire, and represent Illinois HOSA? State Officers are the voice of our members — connecting with industry professionals, schools, and communities across the state.


If you’re driven to make an impact and grow as a leader, this is your opportunity.
Download the State Officer Application below and take the first step toward leading Illinois HOSA


Applications are due no later than Feb 1st


Submit a pin design

More information coming soon. 

Apply for the IL HOSA Scholarship

The Illinois HOSA Scholarship supports active members who are planning to continue their education in the health sciences. This award recognizes students who show strong involvement in HOSA, leadership in their chapters, and a commitment to serving others.


If you believe your HOSA journey reflects these qualities, we encourage you to apply.


ALL INFORMATION MUST BE SUBMITTED TO ILLINOIS HOSA BY THE DEADLINE DATE OF FEBRUARY 1. All applications should be mailed to:


Kelly Jany

616 Live Oak Dr.

Chester, IL 62233



Download the scholarship application below for full eligibility details and instructions.


November 26th, 2025

Registration Deadline for SLC Preliminary Rounds

December 1st - 4th, 2025 

SLC Preliminary Rounds: Tests open Monday 12/1 - 12/4 from 7AM to 7PM

* Testing will be proctored *

February 1st, 2026

Deadline for State Leadership Conference Registration

February 23rd-27th, 2026

Round 1 Testing

* Testing will be proctored *

March 18th-20th, 2026

State Leadership Conference - BOS Center

Address: Convention Center Plaza #1, Springfield, IL, 62701

Preliminary (Prelims) Round Information

IL HOSA competitions are organized into three tiers: Preliminary Round, Round 1, and Round 2.


The journey begins with the Preliminary Round, held December 1–5, 2025 at each chapter’s location. Depending on your event, this round may involve an online test or an online submission.


To set yourself up for success, be sure to review the IL HOSA Preliminary Round Guidelines carefully. These outline exactly what’s expected and how your event will be judged. Since IL HOSA uses its own scoring guidelines for this round, it’s essential to work closely with your advisor to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Only active IL HOSA members are eligible to compete. To get registered, your chapter advisor must enroll you through the National HOSA online portal. If your advisor needs assistance, they can contact IL HOSA directly for support.


All competitors for the 2025–2026 IL HOSA Competitive Season must be registered no later than November 26, 2025.


Once registered, each competitor will receive an email from onlinetesting@apps.hosa.org containing a unique username and password to access their online test. Please ensure your students are checking both their inbox or spam folder for the email.  Two weeks before Preliminary Rounds begin, advisors may contact IL HOSA to request a master list of their chapter members’ login credentials.


If you are competing in a project-based event that requires a submission, be sure to upload your materials through the HOSA Competitive Event Digital Upload system. Need help? [Click here] for step-by-step instructions on how to use the digital upload tool.

Preliminary Round Guidelines

The Illinois HOSA Preliminary Round Guidelines explain how preliminary competitions are run in our state. These guidelines are only for the preliminary process and may differ from what is listed on the National HOSA website.



📌 Important: Illinois Preliminary Round Guidelines are used only for preliminary rounds. Once you advance to SLC or ILC, you must follow the National HOSA Guidelines.


If you have questions, please start with your chapter advisor. If additional help is needed, your advisor may contact Illinois HOSA.

Check Back on Oct 13TH for more information. 

Preliminary round CONFERENCE DOCUMENTS

Unlock Your Competitive Edge at Illinois HOSA's 2026 State Leadership Conference!


Ready to excel in your chosen competitive event? Whether you're diving into Medical Terminology, Biomedical Laboratory Science, or any of our 50+ thrilling options, we've got you covered! Access our comprehensive guidelines packed with essential rules and insights designed to help you shine at the conference.


💡 Important Update for the Preliminary Round: Illinois HOSA has tailored guidelines specifically for this year's State Leadership Conference. Be sure to review these exclusive preliminary round guidelines to ensure you're fully prepared.


📖 Visit our preliminary round website to access the IL HOSA-specific preliminary round rules. Let’s make your mark together at this year’s conference. 


Explore the updated 2024 Preliminary Round Guide for Illinois HOSA's competitive events for this year's State Leadership Conference. This essential resource provides the latest information to help you excel in your HOSA journey. For any additional questions, have you advisor contact us.

Preliminary Round Testing Schedule for Illinois HOSA’s 2023 State Leadership Conference


🗓️ Dates: December 2nd – December 6th
⏰ Testing Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM


All competitors will have the opportunity to complete their testing or submit their projects within this timeframe.


🚨 Need Assistance?

  • If you experience any issues with your exam or project submission, please seek help from your advisor.
  • For further assistance, your chapter advisor can contact us directly to resolve the issue promptly.

Stay prepared, and good luck in your competitive events! Let’s make this year’s conference one to remember!

Utilize the IEP verification form to request accommodations for students who are competing during this years competition season. 

We’re streamlining the testing and project submission process to make it even more convenient for you. Here’s what you need to know:


🖥️  Testing Schedule:

  • 📅 Dates: Monday, Feb 23rd – Thursday, March 26th
  • ⏰ Time: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • 📨 Login Information: Competitors will receive their login credentials via email. Be sure to check your spam or junk folder for an email from "onlinetesting@apps.hosa.org."


💡 Trouble Logging In?
If you encounter any issues accessing your login, reach out to your advisor for support.


📤 Project Uploads:

  • 📅 Submission Window: Monday, Feb 23rd – Thursday, Feb 26th (7:00 AM – 7:00 PM)
  • 📅 Final Day: Friday, March 7th (7:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
  • 📨 Submission Links: Competitors will receive a unique project submission link via email. Be sure to check your inbox (and spam folder) for this link to ensure timely submission.


Stay organized, double-check your email, and let your advisor know if you have any questions. Good luck as you prepare to showcase your skills and talents! 🚀

Use the document below to access the IL HOSA Competitive Event Guidelines for Round 1 and 2. 

The official 2025 SLC Qualifier list has been sent to chapter advisors! Be sure to connect with your advisor to find out if you’ve qualified for the upcoming State Leadership Conference. The final list of qualifiers will be posted on our website after January.

Registration Deadline for SLC 2024 is Feb 1. Advisors can use the hosa portal to register members. Advisors can reach out to IL HOSA if further assistance is needed. 

General CONFERENCE DOCUMENTS

Familiarize yourself with the Illinois HOSA Code of Conduct and Medical Liability Release Form, crucial documents ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all participants. By adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to the integrity of HOSA events while acknowledging the importance of personal responsibility. Access and complete these forms to actively participate in Illinois HOSA activities, fostering a community committed to excellence and ethical conduct.

Did you know that HOSA has updated the event submission platform? Check out these links below to be prepared for this upcoming competition season.

 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

SLC 2025 Conference schedule will be available soon!

More Information coming soon!

Meet this years keynote speaker

Meet Brittany Richmond, MS

Student Speaker & Anxiety Expert

Brittany Richmond is an energetic, charismatic communicator and a mental health expert of 10+ years. Right after high school, Brittany was diagnosed with multiple anxiety disorders (including an impulse control disorder) which led her into the field of counseling and psychology. From there, she has made it her mission to not only end the stigma, but "hug as many young people hurting" as she can with her story and her voice.

Brittany uses her own battle with mental health to inspire students and staff, but most importantly, let them know that they are not alone; and that there is help and hope. When Brittany shares her life with anxiety, she tells compelling, relatable stories from what peer pressure was like, people-pleasing, even social anxiety which led to her being a 2x college drop out. She says, what changed her life in her own mental health battle was learning to lean into the things that brought her joy, which led to strong offensive coping strategies and creating structure in her daily routine.  Brittany's energy and knowledge instantly draws audience memebers in as she creates a safe place to be vulnerable and compassionate - to connect with others and help them start to build, develop and implement proactive coping strategies.

Brittany is a sought after teen mental health speaker and is a popular anxiety expert. She has given presentations across the country at conferences, conventions, school assemblies, and other large student events. She is one of only about 13 active women speakers in the youth market today!

While Brittany does love speaking and inspiring students, she loves her husband and cats even more! She also loves rockin' out in her vintage band tees and sequins while listening to 80s hair bands. If she’s not riding on her Peloton, you might find her at a St Louis Cardinals game, drinking coffee at a local coffee shop, or binge watching Christmas Movies or Gilmore Girls on her couch - she lovingly calls herself, a "hot-mess express, in a good way!" She lives in Green Valley, Illinois with her husband Zach and cat Missy. She can be reached through her Instagram at @thebrittanyrichmond or website www.brittanyrichmond.com

Keynote Speech: 


Mental health, much like physical health, is a muscle that needs to be nurtured in order to get stronger. In this presentation, Brittany speaks to students looking to not only support their own mental health, but that of others as well. Relatable insights include sharing her story with anxiety and depression, creating a safe space for difficult conversations, showing students they are not alone and how to take action TODAY for good mental health!


Teens today carry a lot around with them. More so than they let people see.  

In fact, we often carry a lot seemingly well, no matter how heavy it can be. Brittany takes students through an interactive, energetic presentation in which they will get the chance to connect, hear from each other - and most importantly: know they are not alone. 


Through transformational conversations with their peers, interactive activities and empowering visuals, they will see they are not alone and how we can start to build our own personal strategies strengthening our mental health and overcoming anxiety.

These types of conversations and interactions will serve them well in leadership roles, relationships and friendships as they grow into happy, healthy humans!

2023 top 3 CONFERENCE Finalists

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