Back in December, 20 Future Business Leaders from BCHS competed at the district level in various events against more than 500 students from Baker, Nassau and Duval counties.
“Our awards ceremony was held last night and all 20 placed in the top 10 of their events! 19 placed in the top 5, and we had 5 students win 1st place in their events!” said business education teacher Kendra Morgan this month.
She said the team is fundraising for the state competition in March.
“This is my second year attending FBLA competitions and it is definitely an unforgettable experience,” said sophomore Lacey Raulerson. “From all of the people I’ve had the privilege to meet, to the information and opportunities that come along with it, FBLA is more than just a club. We’re making lifelong friendships and eventually business partnerships.”
Seventeen students are eligible for the state competition in Orlando in March. They are Breanna Cox, FBLA parliamentarian, Avery Wilkerson, who won first place for graphic design, Miles Capers, first place in hospitality and event management, Austin McCloud, first in client service, Ryan Harrell, first in networking infrastructures, junior Wyatt Forbes, FBLA president and 2nd place in job interview, Adrian Frounfelter, second in cyber security, Bentley Brewin, 9th grade representative and 2nd place in public service announcement, Brayden Moore, second place in computer problem solving, Brittany Swindell, second in business communication, Abigail Davis, third in agribusiness, Megan Tiner, third in introduction to business procedures, Lacey Raulerson, and third in public speaking, George Haynes, Ian Holtom and Brayden Rhoden, third in sports and entertainment management; and Jakaira Carter, fifth in introduction to business concepts.
Anniston Gurganious placed third in word processing, Izaiah Dugger, vice-president, fourth in introduction to public speaking and Layla Burke, chapter and district treasurer, eighth place in personal finance.
“Eligibility for state is different for each event and is based on the event type, placement at the district level and overall test scores,” explained Morgan by email. “We will be raising funds for us to attend the FBLA State Leadership Conference in March, so if you know of any individuals or businesses who may be interested in sponsoring us, please reach out to me at [email protected].”
“FBLA has taught me many things but the most important thing it taught me was to never be afraid to try something new. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone because that will open many more doors you didn’t expect to open,” said Forbes, the president.
Junior Adrian Frounfelter agreed: “Being in FBLA has given me various opportunities that I wouldn’t have if I never joined, and has allowed me to experience so many things that I really enjoy.”
“The competition is an exceptional opportunity to expand your knowledge in something you find interest in,” said junior Layla Burke, district and chapter treasurer. “It’s also exhilarating to meet other students from schools who share similar interests allowing you to learn from what they know. If you make it to the state competition, then it’s also beneficial for your resume which can help you in the long run.”
Forbes announced on Facebook that he would be among 17 students heading to Orlando March 28-31 for the next competition and are now raffling off a Wildcats swag basket for donations. Message him with a name and phone number to enter.
