Southern New Hampshire Health Named Sole National Winner of 2025 Youth Workforce Program Award

Southern New Hampshire Health has been named the sole nationwide recipient of the 2025 Youth Workforce Program of the Year award from the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP). The honor recognizes the health system’s Beyond the Stethoscope initiative, making Southern New Hampshire Health the only organization in New Hampshire and the only organization in the country to earn this distinction in 2025.

This program offers rising high school seniors a six-week volunteer experience that opens the door to the many possibilities of a career in healthcare. Through hands-on activities, personal mentoring, behind-the-scenes department tours, and training led by our dedicated Southern NH Health staff, students gain more than just exposure. They discover inspiration, confidence, and a clearer vision of their future.

“Beyond the Stethoscope was designed to create meaningful exposure for young people who have not seen the full scope of healthcare outside of direct patient care,” said Viktoriya Dribinskaya, Director of Workforce Development at Southern New Hampshire Health. “Students leave with a deeper understanding of how every role, from respiratory therapy to information technology, contributes to patient care and system success.”

“Beyond the Stethoscope exemplifies what the NAWDP Youth Workforce Program of the Year is about: partnerships that create new, innovative pathways for young people to pursue meaningful careers, said Melissa Robbins, Chief Executive Officer of NAWDP. “NAWDP is proud to recognize Beyond the Stethoscope as our 2025 Youth Workforce Program of the Year for its lasting, positive impact on the lives of local students.”

By the Numbers: Program Impact

• Launch and Growth: Piloted in 2024 with 9 students; expanded in 2025 with 29 applicants and 14 participants in 2025
• Staff Engagement: 50 staff members contributed more than 120 hours each year to the program.
• Career Outcomes: 90% of the participants from both years have committed to volunteering or pursuing employment with the organization.
• Alumni Engagement: Students are offered two alumni engagement opportunities per year to stay connected with the Nashua community and with our health system.

“I came into this program with an open mind, and six weeks later had a clear path,” said Aaron Belanger of Litchfield, NH, graduate of Beyond the Stethoscope. “I discovered a passion for respiratory therapy during one of the hands-on sessions and made the decision to pursue a degree in this field with the hopes of future employment at Southern NH Health.”

Each year, the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals recognizes organizations that demonstrate outstanding performance in advancing youth workforce development. This year, Southern New Hampshire Health stood out for its ability to engage students in hands-on learning while strengthening ties to the community.