Nethra Ramesh, an 11th-grade student at Henderson High School, member of  and of the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) club, and Secretary of PENN HOSA recently made headlines as she represented the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America (CADCA) during the 34th Annual National Leadership Forum in Washington, DC.

Ramesh, a dedicated officer of PENN HOSA, was chosen from a pool of thousands of HOSA members to serve as a youth representative for CADCA. In her role, she actively participated in the Forum, where she had the unique opportunity to address the opioid overdose crisis – one of the nation's most pressing public health challenges.

“I have always had an interest in healthcare and the medical field,” said Ramesh. “In addition to my participation in HOSA, I’m also an EMS volunteer. I’ve seen the terrible impact that drugs can have on a community, and, along with a fellow EMS volunteer, I wanted to kick start an initiative called Project Clean Slate to buy Narcan in bulk to be able to supply to local charities, homeless shelters, and more because this can make a positive difference in preventing death due to an overdose.”

During the event, Ramesh engaged in discussions with key figures, including the US Secretary of Health and Human Services, Xavier Becerra, shedding light on the gravity of the opioid epidemic and its impact on communities. Her active involvement and leadership in HOSA, coupled with her commitment to community well-being, made her a standout youth representative for CADCA. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra asked Ramesh, and three peers, about her involvement with and passion for healthcare and how communities can be better empowered to assist those impacted by the opioid epidemic. 

“I didn’t expect to have the opportunity for such critical conversations with national leadership when planning to attend the Forum, and I truly learned so much about the opioid crisis on a national level as well as the importance of youth involvement,” said Ramesh.

Ramesh's recent trip to Washington, DC, reflects her dedication to substance use and misuse prevention and creating safe, healthy, and drug-free communities.

“Nethra has worked so hard to make the most of every opportunity she’s been presented with here at Henderson and at national level,” said Donna Zingani, Henderson High School Certified School Nurse. “She’s an incredible leader and we are thrilled to recognize her dedication to the community and passion for healthcare,” she added.