The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) is proud to announce that Southern New Hampshire Health’s program, Beyond the Stethoscope: Career Pathways in a Health System, has been named the 2025 Youth Workforce Development Program of the Year. The program will be formally recognized at the awards ceremony during NAWDP’s 26th Annual Youth Symposium in New Orleans, Louisiana.
“The Youth Program of the Year award recognizes innovative initiatives that empower young people to achieve academic success, explore meaningful careers, and unlock their full potential,” said Melissa Robbins, NAWDP Chief Executive Officer. “Beyond the Stethoscope is a shining example, inspiring students to envision futures in healthcare while connecting them with real opportunities in their own communities.”
Launched in Summer 2024, Beyond the Stethoscope was developed by Viktoriya Dribinskaya, Director of Workforce Development, and Kameo LeLievre, Manager of Volunteer Services, in response to a growing trend of local graduates leaving New Hampshire for college and careers. The program’s goal is to show students that healthcare offers diverse and rewarding career opportunities—right in their own backyard.
The six-week summer volunteer program immerses high school students in hands-on learning, department tours, and career exploration. Participants gain exposure to a wide range of healthcare roles—far beyond direct patient care. From observing a respiratory therapist’s pig lung demonstration to engaging in candid discussions with executive leaders about their career journeys, students leave with a deeper understanding of the health system and their place within it.
One student reflected on the experience: “I have learned so much about healthcare and myself. I’ve met countless great people and found a community I can see myself in.”
Colin McHugh, President & CEO of Southern NH Health, emphasized the impact of the program: “Beyond the Stethoscope is another example of our commitment to developing the next generation of healthcare professionals. It is inspiring to see our team welcome these students into their work lives and provide real exposure to what it means to care for patients.”
The program is designed not only as a summer learning opportunity but also as a lasting connection. Students are encouraged to return as volunteers, pursue employment, or simply stay in touch with mentors who continue to cheer them on.
“We are grateful to every staff member who has poured their time, energy, and enthusiasm into this program,” said LeLievre. “Their passion is contagious, and the students feel it in every interaction—from a warm hallway greeting to an inspiring story. Together, they’ve helped shape these students’ summers and, more importantly, their sense of purpose.”
By offering students a behind-the-scenes view of healthcare and exposing them to the collaborative nature of the health system, Beyond the Stethoscope is building a strong pipeline of future healthcare professionals while deepening ties to the local community.
About Southern New Hampshire Health
Southern New Hampshire Health provides comprehensive, high quality, high value healthcare to communities in southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts. To learn more, visit snhhealth.org.
