FBLA: A social and learning environment
- Bett Growl
- Dec 5, 2018
- 2 min read
Founded in 1942, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is a national organization thats mission statement is to create, lead, and inspire. The program works to provide students with leadership opportunities and experience in the field of business.
Implemented at the high school 13 years ago, FBLA is advised by business teachers Angela Mojeiko, Sarah Roeder, and Mark Pisel.
The program meets Friday mornings at 7:45 in Roeder’s room. The meetings help to keep members on track and keep their deadlines met.
In the fall, the program attends two conferences, the Iowa UFLC conference on Oct. 21 and 22 and the NFLC Chicago Conference on Nov. 2 and 3. At the conferences, students listen to keynote speakers, attend workshops, and network with fellow FBLA members.
FBLA does not only develop social and leadership skills but also creates an opportunity for members to put those skills into action. FBLA holds competitions throughout the year to test members business knowledge and skills.
Whether it is practicing objective test subjects or preparing a speech, Bettendorf members prepare for the competitions.
The culmination of the members work will be on March 28 in Coralville at the Iowa State Leadership Conference. At the conferences, members will compete in business events, attend workshops, and elect state officers.
“At state, it is very cool to be surrounded with people who all share a common interest with you. You can compete in a multitude of different events and it is very humbling to see how far members come in their events,” President Lauren Kress said.
From the Iowa Conference, a select few will be chosen to represent Bettendorf at the national level at the National Leadership Conference. This year the conference will be held in San Antonio, Texas, on June 29.
FBLA does not only focus on competitions, but also on the creation of a positive environment for members.
“The goal of FBLA is not only to teach students about business skills, but also to learn life skills that can be used in any job field. We want to foster a positive atmosphere that students can come to and connect with,” Kress said.
A large component of the positive environment are the social lock-ins that FBLA holds monthly.
“The lock-ins are really fun. We have gone bowling at the BettPlex and have played laser tag in the school,” Vice President Zach Berntgen said.
