The District 5 Future Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Leadership Conference was held at Central Community College in Columbus on Monday, October 11. 360 FCCLA members, advisers and guests attended the conference from Boone Central, Clarkson, Columbus, David City, East Butler, Howells-Dodge, Humphrey, Leigh, Madison, Schuyler, St. Edward, and Twin River FCCLA Chapters. Columbus High School had 12 students attend this year.
During the closing session, winners of the Poster and Creed Speaking Contest were announced. Kiara Barnes and Jordyn Trotta of Columbus High School (CHS) were the winners of the Promoting FCCLA Poster. Suzette Padilla of CHS came in second while Callen Huele of CHS came in third. This year's Creed Speaking winner in the Junior Division was Zoe Elizabeth Roehl of CHS.
Students participated in breakout sessions that included “The Power of Youth Leaders” by Sara Draper of MADD, “Breaking Down Connections” by Alexus Hans, “STIs” by East Central Health, ”Military Job Opportunities and Benefits”, “SPOT 101” by Revin Nyberg, “National Programs: Step by Step” by Gina Alba. “Dating Violence”, “Make Your Mark: Becoming an Organ, Tissue and Eye Donor” by Emily Niebrugge of Live On Nebraska, and Community Service Project: Cards for Veterans. The keynote presentation, “Moments” was given by Maile Ilac-Boeder and Abby Miller of the Leadership Center in Aurora. Their presentation challenged students to take advantage of opportunities that come their way.
If you would like to learn more about the CHS FCCLA program please contact Ms. Jaixen at jaixena@discoverers.org.