Cobb Reporter

April 17, 2025 — The partnership between Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy (CITA) and Wellstar Health System has resulted in 12 students transitioning into employment with the healthcare company. A signing day was held at CITA to celebrate these students, who will become Wellstar employees in June.

"They're not just getting a high school diploma, they're getting industry certifications along with it," stated Tuqwan Jordan, Wellstar's Director of Talent Acquisition. "We make sure that they are employed, that they are employable, and that they have the necessary skills. We want them to continue to develop in their education and reach their career goals. We are extremely proud of them."

Evelyn Rosenthal, Wellstar Assistant Vice President of Leader and Employee Development, noted, "If you choose us, we choose you right back. If you believe that you can reach the stars, Wellstar will bring the ladder to help you climb and get up there. We're going to support you and make Wellstar a career destination, meaning you start today and just stay with us until you retire."

Ms. Rosenthal emphasized that this support is endorsed by Wellstar's top leadership, including retiring CEO Candice Saunders. Ms. Saunders, who became CEO in 2015, played a pivotal role in establishing the CITA partnership. The first class of interns is entering the company as she steps down.

Dr. Tiffany Barney, CITA Director, praised the partnership, saying, "The exposure to the industry that comes from this partnership is second to none. Wellstar has been a phenomenal partner for us. These students were so well-prepared that Wellstar said they felt comfortable hiring them on the spot after their interviews. That's a testament to our outstanding healthcare pathway teaching team at CITA."

Student Joe Muturi, who will join Cobb Hospital, expressed enthusiasm, saying, "If I could scream at the top of the tallest mountain that you should join CITA, I would. I've gotten so many opportunities here as well as a bunch of certifications. Because of CITA and Wellstar, I am prepared to be the healthcare professional I always wanted to be!"

Classmate Maritza Pacheco, heading to Kennestone, shared similar sentiments. She said, "These weren't just experiences for a resume. They were moments that transformed how I see myself and my future." Reflecting on a personal experience, she added, "One of the most stirring moments in my journey was using my bilingual abilities to translate for patients. That moment of connection when fear melts into understanding in a patient's eyes is a feeling I carry in my heart every day."

Health Science teacher Sheri Drake highlighted the feedback received from mentors and patients, noting comments such as, "Your students are so professional. Your students have the ability to communicate better than any other students we've seen. Your students have so much compassion and empathy for our patients."

The CITA students joining Wellstar include Jossie Aguilar, Anahi Blanco, Christian Crane, Jose Guevara, Eden Iyare, Momodou Jallow, Monika Meneses, Joe Muturi, Ximena Paniagua, Aaliyah Reeves, Maritza Rojas, and Jacqueline Vazquez.