Shayla Jacobsen and Adviser Ronita Jacobsen attended the 2023 FCCLA National Leadership Conference (NLC) held in Denver, CO from July 1-6.
The conference themed "incREDible" drew more than 7,900 students, educators, and guests from across the nation. This conference provided a valuable platform for attendees to expand their leadership skills, sharpen their talents, explore career pathways, and listen to inspiring speakers.
At the heart of the conference was the highly anticipated Students Taking Action with Recognition (STAR) Events Competition. “We are thrilled to share that Shayla proudly represented Plainview as she competed in the Job Interview STAR Event and not only received a Gold Medal but also placed as a Top Ten Finalist.
As a Top 10 Finalist, she was recognized on stage for her outstanding performance. With 49 competitors in her event, I am very proud of her Top 10 Finish. The evaluators used the full 20 minutes to interview her. She competed on Monday, so it was a long wait till Thursday to get the results” Jacobsen stated. Over 4,300 FCCLA members competed in these 30 STAR events, where they were recognized for their proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills, and career preparation.
During the conference, Jacobsen was able to attend the EXPO (a 2-day event) and visit exhibitor booths on career options, educational resources, fundraisers, and training opportunities. There were so many booths, it took an entire day to go through the EXPO. Sunday-Wednesday STAR competitions took place. When not competing, there were breakout sessions “Red Talks” and Workshops to attend such as: The Japanese Exchange Program, College and Career Exploration, Career Success, Unlocking Leadership Potential, Public Speaking, Driving Safety, Advocating Effectively, Dressing for Success, Risk Taking, Healthy Minds, Mental Health, etc. Additionally, Opening Session Sunday night was held along with several other main business and awards session throughout the week in early morning or evening hours were held.
National and Nebraska FCCLA built in events and flexibility to the schedule which allowed members to meet others across the nation. Whether it be through a Pin Exchange, a walk to the Denver Milk Market, a Rock the Red (Yoga, Zumba, Dance) Night, or a trip to Elitch Gardens on the afternoon of the 4th, members were continually making new friends.
The Plainview Chapter made time to tour the Denver Bronco Stadium (Empower Field at Mile High), Olympic Trainer Center, 7 Falls, and Manitou Incline. The days and nights were filled with FCCLA activities and events, not much sleep.
Looking ahead, FCCLA will be hosting its next National Leadership Conference in Seattle, Wash. from June 29 to July 3, 2024.
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is a dynamic and effective student-led nation-based organization supporting youth on their journey to become the leaders of tomorrow and helping them address important personal, family, work, and societal issues through Family and Consumer Sciences education. FCCLA has over 237,000 members and more than 5,100 chapters across the nation.
FCCLA: The Ultimate Leadership Experience is unique among youth organizations because its programs are planned and run by members. It is the only career and technical intracurricular student organization with a central focus on careers that support families. Participation in national FCCLA programs and chapter activities aids members in becoming strong leaders in their families, careers, and communities.
