Columbia VA launches 2026 Summer Student Volunteer Program
By James Branch, Public Affairs Officer
The Columbia VA Health Care System officially launched its 2026 Summer Student Volunteer Program on June 1 with a new student orientation, welcoming dozens of aspiring health care professionals for an enriching summer of service and learning.
The eight-week program provides high school students ages 14 to 17 with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on exposure to the medical field while serving the nation's Veterans. This year, the program welcomed 64 students, including 38 first-time participants.
According to Yolaunda Mincey, Columbia VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement Director, the program continues to grow in both participation and impact.
"We are proud to welcome 64 students to this year's program," Mincey said. "More than half of them are participating for the first time, and we look forward to helping them develop valuable skills while learning about careers in health care."
During orientation, Columbia VA Assistant Director Ronnie Mack challenged students to reflect on their personal motivations for joining the program.
"Ask yourself, what's your 'why?'" Mack said. "Look deep inside and ask yourself, 'Why am I doing this?' The next eight weeks will be challenging, but you've chosen to invest in your future while making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our nation."
Throughout the summer, students will complete volunteer service hours and gain firsthand experience by assisting nurses, technicians, and medical staff across the health care system. Participants will also have opportunities to observe medical procedures such as endoscopies, attend research presentations, earn CPR and AED certifications, participate in resume-writing workshops, receive scholarship information, and take part in Career Day and other professional development activities.
Christopher Zell, Columbia VA Chief of Engineering, encouraged students to maximize every opportunity available to them during the program.
"By participating in this program, you have made a choice to enhance your future while contributing to something much larger than yourself," Zell said. "We are proud of you, and we look forward to watching you learn, develop, and succeed throughout the summer."
Students will begin reporting to their assigned health care and administrative departments on June 8, marking the start of a summer dedicated to learning, service, and personal growth.
For many participants, the Columbia VA Summer Student Volunteer Program serves as the first step toward a future career in health care while reinforcing the importance of service to Veterans and the community.