Students from Northeast Community College won top prizes at Future Business Leaders of America, Inc.’s (FBLA) National Leadership Conference (NLC). The event, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, from June 6 to June 8, attracted college students, educators, and volunteers from across the country. The NLC provides education, competition, and networking opportunities centered on business.
More than 1,300 attendees from nearly 200 colleges and universities in 29 U.S. states and territories competed in 42 business-related events for scholarships and cash prizes totaling nearly $60,000. Students also had the opportunity to engage in 60 learning workshops and meet with representatives from more than 20 colleges, universities, and employers, including Alzheimer’s Association, BusinessU, CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP), FICO, Funds2Orgs, Kendra Scott, Men’s Wearhouse, the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and U.S. Coast Guard.
Additionally, student members heard from Jared Ebersole, FBLA high school alumnus and co-founder of Lectec, who shared his journey from FBLA member to Shark Tank entrepreneur, and what it takes to build, fail, and lead.
“Some of my favorite memories will come from this trip because I had the honor of representing Northeast Community College FBLA Collegiate on a national stage,” said Schuyler Heesacker of Humphrey. “Through this experience, I learned that FBLA is much more than an organization; it’s a community. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunities FBLA provides because you’re not just joining as a member; you’re becoming part of a lifelong network. Even after your time in FBLA comes to an end, you’ll always be a part of the FBLA family.”
Ten Northeast Community College students attended and two advisors, Angie Shaffer and Cara Hoehne. Student who attended are Lynn Amrine, Madison; Bekah Butterfield, Stanton; Kennedie Gartner, Stanton; Schuyler Heesacker, Humphrey; Lydia Jahnke, Sutton; Manaseh Liphuka, Malawi, Africa; Kaedence Louthan, Stanton; Mia McNutt, Stanton; Kelli Tunender, O’Neill; and JennaRose Zierke, Pierce.
“Watching our Northeast FBLA-Collegiate members compete on the national stage in Las Vegas was incredibly rewarding," said Angie Shaffer Northeast FBLA advisor. "Their success was not the result of a single presentation or competition, it was built through hours of preparation, practice, teamwork, and determination. They represented Northeast with professionalism, confidence, and integrity, and I could not be prouder of their dedication and accomplishments. Their hard work truly paid off, and they demonstrated what is possible when talent is matched with commitment and perseverance. And they were also able to fit in a lot of fun in the City of Lights, making lasting memories while celebrating their achievements together!”
Results:
5th Place - Community Service Project
Lydia Jahnke
Kelli Tunender
8th Place - Marketing and Sales Case Competition
Schuyler Heesacker
Manaseh Liphuka
Kennedie Gartner
10th place - Business Communications – Schuyler Heesacker
10th place – Hospitality Management Case Study – Lynn Amrine
Outstanding Collegiate Chapter – 10th Place – Northeast Community College
