The partnership between AdventHealth and Cristo Rey Orlando High School has introduced a new work-study program designed to support students interested in health care careers. At a recent “Draft Day” event, 20 students were chosen to participate in the initiative, which allows them to gain professional experience by working one day each week alongside AdventHealth team members.
Principal Johana Santiago-Puckering expressed appreciation for the collaboration. “I am so thankful to AdventHealth for giving our students the chance to follow their passion for health care, grow in character and feel truly believed in,” she said. “It means the world to them and to us.”
One of the selected students, Alexandra Maurice, shared her enthusiasm about being part of the program. “Cristo Rey offers me so much hope for my future. It is also a place where I am cared for and offered a chance to succeed,” Maurice said. “My dream is to work in health care one day, and I am so happy to have the chance to pursue that.”
Through this arrangement, participating students will receive hands-on experience while building skills that are not always developed through classroom instruction.
Cristo Rey Orlando welcomed its first freshman class this year with 125 students from families with limited economic resources. The school is located in Oak Ridge and is part of a network of 40 high schools nationwide focused on career preparation and college readiness. Tuition can be as low as $100 per month for some families.
The work-study effort extends AdventHealth’s broader engagement with Cristo Rey Orlando High School. In 2024, AdventHealth committed support toward establishing an on-campus wellness center aimed at improving access to medical care, dental services, and mental health resources for both students and their families.
AdventHealth’s involvement followed findings from a community survey that highlighted workforce development and access to basic services such as health care as significant needs among Central Floridians. This initiative aligns with AdventHealth’s ongoing role as a not-for-profit system investing in local health projects.
Teresa Mairn, executive director of Strategic Partnerships at AdventHealth and board member at Cristo Rey, commented on the importance of supporting young people: “I’ve been with AdventHealth for 20 years now, and I love seeing this innovative partnership with Cristo Rey Orlando High School grow over time,” she said. “One of the most important parts of our aligned mission is to help Central Florida youths be their absolute best selves and to feel whole. This includes providing wraparound services and opportunities that help the students have success in both the classroom and in their future careers.”
AdventHealth Orlando was established in 1908 in Orlando, Florida. The hospital operates under President Terry Shaw; it features pediatric services and serves as a training facility.
