Students from Berryville Middle School won top prizes at Future Business Leaders of America, Inc.’s (FBLA) National Leadership Conference (NLC). The event, held in Anaheim, California from June 29 to July 2, attracted more than 15,000 middle school and high school students, educators, and volunteers from across the country. The NLC provides education, competition, and networking opportunities centered on business.
Nearly 11,000 students from more than 2,000 middle schools and high schools in 48 U.S. states and territories competed in 100 business-related events for cash prizes totaling over $120,000.
Berryville students competing at the NLC were:
JB Anson, Jeremy Cash, and Mariano Sanchez in the Marketing Mix Challenge.
Alara Parker placed in the top 12 in the nation in Exploring Public Speaking.
Izzy Gonzalez, Annika Joy, and Kendall Reeves placed 10th in Critical Thinking.
Krysten Bills placed 7th in Annual Chapter Activities presentation.
Malonie Ajlok, Eliza Maxwell, and Jisselle Quintana placed 5th in Community Service Presentation.
Mr. Sandon Williams (Co-Adviser) shared this about their time at Nationals:
"Mrs. Johnice Glisson (Co-Adviser) and I had the incredible honor of qualifying 11 students for the FBLA National Leadership Conference in just our first year as an active chapter. This milestone gave our students the opportunity to experience so many exciting “firsts”—from flying on a plane and visiting Disneyland and Hollywood, to stepping onto the national stage to compete.
Our students rose to the occasion, locking in and going head-to-head with the best of the best from across the country. We are beyond proud to share that eight of them placed in the Top 12 nationally—a remarkable achievement!
These young leaders represented Berryville with excellence, confidence, and heart. We couldn't be prouder of the commitment to FBLA."
“This year’s National Leadership Conference showcased the remarkable talent and dedication of our student members,” said FBLA President & CEO Jennifer Woods. “From critical thinking and business management to finance, accounting, and information technology, they demonstrated the essential skills that will shape tomorrow’s workforce. These middle school and high school students leave Anaheim with not only well-earned recognition, but also new connections, greater confidence, and a clearer path toward their future careers.”