Nikki Bentley- Executive director

Mrs. Bentley joined HOSA in 2013 when she became a teacher & HOSA advisor for her alma mater Cass High School, in White, Georgia. She transitioned to the classroom after 17 years in the healthcare field as a Registered Nurse, specializing in Labor & Delivery and Mother-Baby care.

Mrs. Bentley’s education includes an Associate’s Degree in Nursing from Georgia Highlands College, in Rome Georgia. She later returned to college and received her Master’s Degree in Nursing with a focus on Leadership & Management from Walden University.

In 2018, Mrs. Bentley became the Region 1 representative for Georgia HOSA’s Board of Directors, acting as the Secretary. She has enjoyed participating in Georgia HOSA activities at every level and looks forward to a bright future with Georgia HOSA.

Mrs. Bentley loves all things family! She has been married to her high school sweetheart, Shannon, for 26 years & they have 3 children, Abby (25), Grace (23), & MaryPaige (15). In her free time she loves spending time with her family, serving with her church small group, & reading.

Nate Thomas-State Officer coach

Nate Thomas is no stranger to the world of HOSA. His HOSA journey dates back to 2009 in a small town known as Locust Grove, GA. 13 years later and his fire for HOSA still burns bright. From serving as a chapter officer, to becoming a state officer, and even volunteering as a post secondary student, HOSA was and continues to be a large part of his life. 

Nate holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology from the University of West Georgia. He later went on to earn an Associate of Science in Respiratory Therapy from Southern Crescent Technical College. Nate currently works as a NICU Respiratory Therapist in the metro Atlanta area. 

In his spare time, Nate is usually somewhere behind a camera taking photos. His interests include landscape and lifestyle photography with a concentration in street photography. He also is somewhat of a fashion enthusiast, so I’m sure you can find him somewhere near your favorite mall or shopping center. 

Katie Ledford- Competitve Events Coordinator/ content strategist

Some of Katie’s most memorable (and favorite) high school memories were competing at HOSA events and participating in the organization at her school!

Katie graduated from Cedartown High School in 2016, and continued her education at the University of West Georgia where she obtained a B.S. in Health and Community Wellness with a minor in Psychology. Katie is also a certified personal trainer.

Katie loves to spend time with her family! She got married in 2020 and welcomed a beautiful baby girl to the world in April 2023. Katie is also a dog mom and has 2 black labs!