The Kossuth High School Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter showcased excellence and determination at the State Leadership Conference held last week at the University of Southern Mississippi. Out of the 23 competitors representing Kossuth, an impressive 14 students secured qualifications for the FBLA National Leadership Conference, set to take place later this summer in Anaheim, California.
Carter Wilbanks, 1st place - Intro to IT
Jaden Hodge, Alex Houston, Lydia Stewart, Chelsey Thrasher, Graham Bradley, 1st place - Parliamentary Procedures
Nellie Johnson, Kalee Mayo, & Emma Mathis, 2nd place - Social Media Strategies
Kamron Patel & Kasen Smith, 3rd place - Community Service Project
Cache King, 3rd place - Intro to Business Presentation
Tristan Bowen, 4th place - Business Communications
Kate McCormack, 4th place - Securities and Investments
Ronnie Rice & Grant Bolton, 5th place - Digital Video Productions
Students competed in a variety of events focusing on business, leadership, public speaking, presentation, and technology. Both advisors expressed immense pride in their students' hard work and achievements. Advisor Ms. Alea Feathers said, “This group has shown incredible growth, commitment, and leadership, and I am proud of them all.”
The conference was also a bittersweet moment for two standout Kossuth FBLA members who have served at the state level this past year. Kate McCormack delivered her farewell address as the outgoing Northern District Vice President, and shared, "Standing here today, I feel a mix of sadness, gratitude, and excitement. As I reflect on my time here, I realize just how much I have grown as a person. It's not just the work we've done, but the incredible people I've had the privilege of getting to know along the way. Each of you has played a role in shaping my experience, and for that, I am deeply thankful."
Emma Crabb also gave her outgoing address as the State Secretary, and said, "This organization has brought me so many amazing memories with my friends to look back on. I have gained many skills through putting myself out there in this organization. I used to be extremely shy and would never dream of speaking in front of this many people. I have gained leadership skills, public speaking skills, and I have gained more confidence within myself."
Both young women have represented Kossuth High School and Mississippi FBLA with distinction, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and service.
Ms. Alexandria Houston was also the MS FBLA Who's Who recipient, having demonstrated leadership, assertiveness, and core values that align with the FBLA Mission and Pledge.
At Kossuth, FBLA is more than just an organization—it is a family. The chapter continues to embody the values of friendship, leadership, and achievement. “We are truly thankful for our FBLA family,” said advisor Mrs. Myra Barnes. “Their support, encouragement, and camaraderie are what make accomplishments like these possible. While we are thrilled to see all of these students succeed, we will especially hate to see this outstanding group of seniors move on.”
With sights now set on the National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, the Kossuth FBLA chapter is ready to continue making their school and community proud.