The Missouri Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) welcomed more than 5,000 attendees from nearly 400 chapters to its April 16-18 state leadership conference. Members and advisors come together in person to expand their leadership knowledge, compete in a variety of events, and connect with others from across the state. The FBLA member has participated in over 76 competitive events on everything from accounting and business ethics to social media strategy and his UX design. The top 10 individuals/teams from each event were awarded medals on stage at the Great Southern Bank Arena. The top four finishers in each competitive event will receive a trophy and advance to this summer’s National Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.
North Callaway High School FBLA State Top 10 Winners
Sales Team Lia Bondurant, Lakyn Hartley, Faith Cash #9
Ellie Pezold UX Design 5th Place
Sophie Geppert Impromptu Speaking 4th Nationals Qualifier
During their time at the conference, members will be exposed to over 45 different sessions led by professional trainers on various topics such as exploring all kinds of leadership styles, learning different communication techniques, and strategizing time and stress management. I attended a professional leadership academy. The Leadership Expo featured more than 30 exhibitors, including college and military partners for members to connect with, leadership activities for members to participate in, and a tour of the Missouri State University School of Business.
For the first time this year, leaders enjoyed a concert organized by Funding the Future. At this concert, the band played popular songs from artists such as her Taylor Swift and incorporated the foundations of financial education. Both keynote speakers empowered everyone to pursue her passion as a business leader. Her Caitlin Schaefer, a former Missouri FBLA state board member who is now her Strategic Relationship Manager at Lord, Abbett, & Co., believes in investing in yourself and defining goals for success. talked about the importance of A world-class entertainer, author and show host, Morris Morrison inspired everyone with his unforgettable stories and powerful messages of perseverance and determination.
