(From Crowder College)Las Vegas, NV—Seven students from Crowder 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.
Seth Russell (Neosho) set a Crowder record winning 1st place in two competitions: Foundations of Economics & Impromptu Speaking.
Cheyenne Baker Oxford (Neosho) placed 3rd in Organizational Behavior & Leadership
Arden Roller (Neosho) placed 10th in Foundations of Management
Chloe Graber (Sarcoxie), Natalie Sarratt (Neosho), & Gauge Spier (Neosho) placed 2nd in Hospitality Management Case Competition.
Bridget Andon (Neosho), Sarratt, and Spier placed 7th in Management Case Competition.
“To have six top 10 finishes from seven students is an achievement in itself,” shared Dr. Scott Donaldson, FBLA sponsor and Crowder Business Instructor. “In my three years at Crowder, this was one of our best performances at Nationals. We have two National Championships and multiple top ten finishes. Additionally, ten of our students received Business Communication Official Certification during a training event taught by Southwest Airlines personnel.”
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.
Crowder College FBLA is under the advisement of Business Instructors: Dr. Scott Donaldson, Dr. Gregory Murdock, and Mr. Jacob Barnes. Students may become a part of FBLA while attending Crowder College. The organization provides activities that are beneficial in many careers. Information is available when enrolling in classes.
“This year’s National Leadership Conference showcased the incredible talent and dedication of our student members,” said FBLA President & CEO Jennifer Woods. “From analytical thinking to dynamic communication, they demonstrated the skills that will shape tomorrow’s workforce. These college students leave Las Vegas not only with well-earned recognition, but also with new connections, confidence, and a clearer path toward their future careers.”
