Several sharp young ladies from Provencal Christian Academy, Lakeview, and St. Mary’s had A-HEC of a summer learning and growing as they completed the Area Health Education program June 15 to July 3 at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center. The students were honored at a graduation ceremony held at the hospital July 3.

Natchitoches’ AHEC program is part of a state and nation-wide network designed to recruit and encourage young people in rural and underserved areas to pursue careers in health care. The AHEC students spent their mornings shadowing different departments at NRMC, from the ER to Labor and Delivery. In the afternoon, they learned anatomy and science lessons. In addition to high school credit, the AHEC students earned certifications in Basic Life Support and Stop the Bleed.

Nevaeh Bush of Provencal Christian Academy, Ti’Layzha Mitchell and Maliyah Garner of Lakeview High School and Kollyns Duhon and Adelle Williams, both of St. Mary’s, had A-HEC of a summer indeed! The Natchitoches Parish Journal extends its best wishes to these accomplished young women as they finish their high school careers. We are looking forward to seeing you as healthcare professionals in the coming years.