Gulfcoast South Area Health Education Center

06/19/2026

Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!!! Thank you for your partnership, SCF!!!

🎉 Congratulations to Shankisha Sizemore, MSDH, CRDH, SCF's Coordinator of Clinical Education and Assistant Professor of Dental Hygiene, on being named a finalist for the Manatee Chamber of Commerce's 12th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards in the Allied Health Professional category!

As the President of the Florida Dental Hygienists’ Association, Leadership Council member of Floridians for Dental Access (FLDA), and past recipient of America’s Tooth Fairy Outstanding Dental Hygienist award, Shankisha serves our community with dedication, humility, and thoughtful leadership. This award recognizes individuals making a real impact on health care in Manatee County, and we couldn't be prouder to see Shankisha's dedication honored this way.

Winners will be announced at a special breakfast event at The Grove Ballroom tomorrow, Thursday, June 18, 2026. Good luck, Shankisha — we're cheering for you! 🦷✨

06/19/2026

Congratulations to Megan Hawkins!! A passionate and committed healthcare provider, treasured partner, GSAHEC Vice-Chair, and all around phenomenal person. We are fortunate to work with you!!! Enjoy your well-deserved recognition!

06/19/2026

What an honor to celebrate Emma Timmons at the Manatee Chamber of Commerce 12th Annual Champions of Healthcare awards.

In the words of Joan Dixon, GSAHEC's Director of Student Programs, Emma "Exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated youth healthcare volunteer whose service has made a meaningful and lasting impact on healthcare education, prevention efforts, and community wellness throughout Manatee County and surrounding areas. Through her years of leadership, advocacy, and service with HOSA–Future Health Professionals and GSAHEC, she has consistently gone above and beyond to support healthcare outreach and inspire others. Her commitment and leadership make her a truly deserving recipient of the Champions of Healthcare Youth Volunteer Award."

From all of us at Gulfcoast South AHEC, congratulations, Emma!

06/18/2026

📣 Registration is now open for our Fall 2026 40-Hour Medical Interpreting Training!

As healthcare organizations continue to serve increasingly diverse communities, the need for qualified medical interpreters has never been greater. This comprehensive training prepares bilingual individuals with the skills, ethics, and medical terminology needed to support effective communication between patients and providers.

Whether you're looking to start a new career, expand your professional skills, or make a meaningful impact in healthcare, this course can help you take the next step.

🗓 Classes begin October 6, 2026
💻 Virtual format
🎓 Certificate awarded upon successful completion

Don't wait to register!

06/17/2026

Thinking about quitting ni****ne? June is a great time to start.

Whether you use ci******es, vapes, ni****ne pouches, ci**rs, or other ni****ne products, our free To***co & Ni****ne Cessation classes can help you build a plan, learn proven strategies, and gain the support you need to reach your goals.

Participants who enroll through June may be eligible to earn up to $125 in Walmart gift cards!

📞 Call 866-534-7909 to register and learn more.

A healthier future starts with a single step. Let us help you take it.

****ne ***coFree ****neFree

06/17/2026

🌎 Speak more than one language?

Your bilingual skills can be a valuable asset in healthcare.

Our Medical Interpreting Training helps participants develop the knowledge and skills needed to bridge communication gaps between patients and providers. For students pursuing healthcare careers, it's also a great way to enhance your resume and showcase your commitment to serving diverse populations.

📅 October 6 – November 17, 2026

Learn more or register with the QR code below: https://gsahec.org/access-program/medical-interpreting-training/

06/11/2026

🚭 Your lungs were made for air, not smoke.

Smoking remains the leading cause of COPD and is responsible for the vast majority of COPD-related deaths. The good news? Quitting smoking can slow the progression of lung damage, improve breathing, and help you regain control of your health.

No matter how long you've smoked, it's never too late to quit. Small steps today can lead to a healthier future tomorrow.

Ready to start your quit journey? Call 866-534-7909 to learn about our free To***co Free Florida classes and resources. Participants may also qualify for up to $125 in Walmart gift cards through June.

***coFreeFlorida

06/10/2026

🚁🩺 As we kick off another season of REACH Health Careers Academies at HCA Florida Blake Hospital, we're taking a moment to recognize the incredible partners who help make these experiences possible.

Through the years, HCA Florida Blake Hospital has welcomed students, opened doors to hands-on learning opportunities, and helped young people envision their futures in healthcare. We're especially grateful for leaders like Frank Giammaria, whose commitment to community engagement has strengthened the connection between students and healthcare careers.

Thank you to Frank and the entire HCA Florida Blake Hospital team for investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals. We can't wait to see what this year's academy participants accomplish!