The Wellstar Health System has been a dynamic and generous partner for Cobb Schools for a long time. Last year, Wellstar strengthened its commitment with a 25-year partnership with the Healthcare Pillar at the Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy (CITA). In addition, they selected two students in last year's graduating class as the first recipients of a $2500 scholarship for continued healthcare training in college.
The next step for Wellstar was achieved earlier this week, when the first group of onsite interns were welcomed to the team with an afternoon reception. The students received their official Wellstar name badges and their very first certification on hand hygiene and sanitizing.
The interns were joined by many Wellstar staff, community partners, and District staff, including CITA Director Dr. Tiffany Barney and Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Kelly Metcalfe. The group was treated to a light buffet that included delicacies such as crab-stuffed shrimp and fruit tortes.
"We are so grateful for this partnership and wanted to have this moment to honor you," said Evelyn Rosenthal, Wellstar Assistant Vice President of Leader and Employee Development. "To honor your effort and the work you've already done and honor your courage to say yes to this. It's a big deal, so well done, each of you."
Ms. Rosenthal further thanked the Wellstar medical professionals in the room for "saying yes" to the internship program. "We wanted this to be a celebration of all the Wellstar leaders who agreed to welcome these students into their clinics, facilities, and departments. It's easy to say it's a great idea, but it takes a much higher level of participation to be involved with it and become a mentor. Thank you for saying yes!" she said gratefully.
Wellstar is fully committed to this program and views it as much more than a temporary training relationship. "We want every student here to have a place at Wellstar," Ms. Rosenthal said. We don't want them to think this is just about an experience; this is about a future."
Dr. Laura Dannels, Wellstar's Chief Talent Officer, encouraged all of the interns to consider themselves as part of the team. "Anyone you see with a Wellstar badge, don't hesitate to ask for help. We're here to support you and make sure that you feel confident. We're here for you on your entire journey," Dr. Dannels said with a smile, confirming the company's perspective of viewing these internships as the first step to a long and meaningful career.
"This has been a long time coming, and we are so grateful it is finally time to welcome this first group of interns into Wellstar facilities," Dr. Barney said about the program. "We have students doing different rotations, including Emergency Response, Surgical Tech, Phlebotomy, and Patient Care. They will all get amazing hands-on training, and we're so excited about this relationship and what our students will learn and experience here!"
"This is a game-changer," agreed Kelly Metcalfe. "This is going to give them opportunities to be employed directly out of high school if they wish, but more importantly, it will open so many doors to their futures. I hope this partnership and the hands-on work it provides continues to grow over the years. We are so grateful for Wellstar's dedication to Cobb students."
