Stanley Students Attend FBLA National Leadership Conference
Students from Stanley High School competed at the 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. Students also had the opportunity to engage in over 120 learning workshops and meet with representatives from more than 260 colleges, universities, and employers, including Alzheimer’s Association, BusinessU, CLA, Empowerly, FICO, Funds2Orgs, Jostens, Kendra Scott, Men’s Wearhouse, UWorld, MBA Research, National Retail Federation, National Technical Honor Society, PNC Bank Student Lending, TKS Worldwide, the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and U.S. Coast Guard.
Additionally, students heard from keynote speaker and proud FBLA alumna, Karissa Bodnar, Founder and CEO of Thrive Causemetics and Bigger Than Beauty Skincare. In a live onstage conversation with FBLA President and CEO Jennifer Woods, Bodnar shared her journey from high school entrepreneur to leading a globally recognized beauty brand rooted in social impact. Her story inspired students to pursue their passions, embrace innovation, and lead with purpose. Payton Lystad was one of the few FBLA members who was chosen for a special meet and greet with Karissa Bodnar after the Opening Session.
Stanley competed in the following events:
● American Enterprise Project - Erika Littlefield and Payton Lystad
● Community Service Project - Kaylee Cotton, Ashley Walter and Alice Wienbar
● Exploring Website Design - Molly Danks, Charlyn Hannon and Reese Mortensen
● Introduction to Business Presentation - Payton Lystad
● UX Design - Ashley Walter
Stanley’s Middle School (7th and 8th grade) chapter was awarded fourth place in the Nation for the Champion Chapter program. This program is a set of membership recruitment and engagement-focused challenges that chapters may complete for national recognition. Stanley’s FBLA adviser, Kendra Evensvold, was also recognized on stage during the Opening Session’s Parade of States for being named North Dakota’s Local Chapter Adviser of the Year.