FBLA members attend conference

HAMBURG — Sixty-nine members of the Wallkill Valley Regional High School chapter of Future Business Leaders of America attended the 2015 FBLA National Fall Leadership Conference in Baltimore, Maryland, from Nov. 19-22.

The New Jersey FBLA state officers from Northern Burlington County and Union County Vocational-Technical joined the Wallkill Valley contingency.

Members participated in various motivational general sessions and workshops in order to develop their leadership skills. Wallkill Valley members were able to “Connect” with members and advisers, which is a reflection of the 2015-2016 national theme.

Wallkill Valley FBLA Co-president Scott Mueller also serves as the 2015-16 New Jersey Membership Vice President; he and the other nine state officers led the New Jersey delegation.

Patty Hendrickson was the keynote speaker for the Opening General Session. Hendrickson is a professional speaker and author who believes with a little “woo hoo,” everything is easier to do.

Students attended workshops that included “Personal Leadership—It Starts with You,” “How to Dress for Success,” “International and Global Business,” “Communication Across Cultures,” “Effective Communication Skills,” “Be Your Best for Babies—March of Dimes,” “What’s Your Leadership Brand?,” and “Make Your World a Better Place.”

Johan Khalilian closed the conference as he compelled his audience to make healthy choices, avoid destructive behaviors, and pursue their life dreams and passions.

Wallkill Valley FBLA members also had the opportunity to network with members from states across the Nation as well as tour Baltimore, including the Maryland Science Center, the Aquarium, and various other notable sites, restaurants, and shops at the Inner Harbor. New Jersey FBLA members also enjoyed dinner and games at Dave & Buster’s.