FBLA State Conference

FBLA State Leadership Conference

By Connor Kariotis

The Burrell chapter of FBLA took 30 of its members to the annual state leadership conference held at the Hershey Lodge and the Giant Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania from April 17 to April 20.  Before the conference, the students spent most of the day on Sunday at Hershey Park where they rode roller coasters, walked through the park’s zoo, and enjoyed the perfect weather.  When asked what she thought of the park, Senior Abby Larko said, “There were so many rides I wanted to try that I didn’t even get to all of them!”  

The next day, Monday, was the first day of competitive events and the Opening Ceremony.  From around 10am-3pm students had the opportunity to view many student presentations or workshops of their choice. The students then went back to the hotel for a few hours before having to shuttle to the Giant Center for the Opening Ceremony.  The Opening Ceremony introduced the Pennsylvania State Leadership Team and had an interactive guest speaker that had the crowd engaged as he gave his entertaining and informative speech.  

Tuesday was similar to Monday except instead of the Opening Ceremony they had the Closing Ceremony where all of the awards were presented.  Burrell had a few 10th place winners that got to go onto the stage which included, Juniors Cam Wagner and Mikey Bowser, Seniors Gabe Ziccarelli and Ian Quinn, and Senior Joshua Kindler.  When asked what he thought about getting an award, Ziccarelli said, “We did not think we would win anything, but I am glad we got to go on stage.” 

Wednesday, the final day, was spent at Hershey’s Chocolate World where the students rode the chocolate tour ride and browsed for candy and souvenirs before making the trip back home.

If any students that are not already seniors are interested in this experience, please see Mrs. Kariotis about joining FBLA next year!

FBLA has returned from state competition, results:

• 10th Place in Management Information Systems: Juniors Mikey Bowser and Cam Wagner

• 10th Place in Network Design: Seniors Gabe Ziccarelli and Ian Quinn

• 10th Place in Networking Infrastructures: Senior Josh Kindler

The following students were inducted into the National Business Honor Society: 

• Bella Seidel

• Maddie Gerthoffer

• Connor Kariotis

Photography Contributor: Mrs. K