News Summary
The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter at Brooke High School has been awarded the prestigious title of West Virginia Chapter of the Year at the state leadership conference. This recognition highlights the chapter’s dedication to community service and leadership. Alongside this honor, the chapter also received the Gold Seal Chapter Award of Merit and was recognized as a Gold Champion chapter. With a record-breaking membership of 170 students, Brooke High School FBLA has continuously demonstrated excellence in business and community engagement, achieving remarkable success at both state and national levels.
Brooke High School FBLA Shines Bright, Named West Virginia Chapter of the Year!
Brooke, West Virginia, is buzzing with excitement as the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter at Brooke High School has earned the prestigious title of West Virginia Chapter of the Year. This accolade was presented during the state leadership conference, marking a significant achievement for the hardworking students and dedicated advisers associated with this vibrant group.
During the conference, Savannah Wilkins, a state officer, took to the stage to present the award to Chad Haught, the chapter adviser, along with officers Emma Riggs, Morgan McKinney, Hailey Buterbaugh, Lily Beecroft, Jania Jones, Josie Pennybacker, Ryan Haught, and Lorelei Costlow. The presentation celebrated the chapter’s commitment to community service and notable accomplishments at local, state, and national levels, truly highlighting their exceptional efforts.
In addition to being named Chapter of the Year, the Brooke High School FBLA also received the Gold Seal Chapter Award of Merit for its outstanding performance and was recognized as a Gold Champion chapter for promoting teamwork and making a positive impact both in school and the larger community.
Community Service Initiatives That Made a Difference
The chapter’s success came not just from their competitive edge but also from their remarkable community service projects. Among the most creative was a fundraiser where teachers volunteered to have pies thrown in their faces, raising an impressive $1,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association. Another heartwarming project involved donating baskets filled with essentials for eight infants in the neonatal intensive care units. Additionally, the chapter collected clothing for the school’s clothes closet to support fellow students in need and teamed up with the Weir High School FBLA to gather canned food for local food pantries.
Record-Breaking Membership
For four consecutive years, the Brooke High School FBLA chapter has maintained its status as the largest FBLA chapter in West Virginia, boasting an impressive membership of 170 students. This demonstrates the enthusiasm and commitment of students to engage in the world of business and leadership.
High Achievers at the State and National Levels
Success didn’t stop at community service. Several FBLA members excelled at the state conference held in March 2025 in Kingwood, W.Va. Three outstanding members, Lorelei Costlow, Ryan Haught, and Luke Haught, showcased their skills at the national conference held in Anaheim, California, from June 29 to July 2, where they got to experience attractions such as Disneyland and Griffith Observatory.
Lorelei claimed first place for her remarkable business management report, while Ryan triumphed in the state Accounting I competition, and Luke impressed in the hospitality and event management competition, earning fourth place.
Outstanding Performers Take the Stage
At the state conference, multiple Brooke FBLA students secured first-place honors in various categories. The winners included Hailey Buterbaugh for the community service project, Meah Doll for partnership with business project, Will Harvey for marketing, Jacob High for data analysis, Gabe Keener for supply chain management, Ivy Myers for Introduction to Event Planning, Josie Pennybacker for accounting II, Onica Rushing for future business educator, Gavin Scott for data analysis, and Kayleigh Suddoth for insurance risk management. Other students from Brooke earned second, third, and fourth place rankings, showcasing the array of talent within the chapter.
Meet the Leadership Team
At the helm of this successful chapter is a dynamic leadership team including President Lorelei Costlow, Vice President Josie Pennybacker, Secretary Morgan McKinney, and Treasurer Ryan Haught, among others. This team not only excels in competition but also leads creative initiatives, including an annual powderpuff football competition that raises funds for their various activities and community service projects.
Celebrating Hard Work and Success
Adviser Chad Haught attributes the group’s achievements to the dedication of its members and the exceptional leadership of the officers. With a focus on community service and personal growth in business, the Brooke High School FBLA chapter continues to pave the way for future generations and spread positivity throughout their community.
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Additional Resources
- Weirton Daily Times: Brooke Future Business Leaders Receive State, National Accolades
- Wikipedia: Future Business Leaders of America
- KTTN: McKenna Horton and Brooke Horton Named Missouri’s Outstanding Beginning Teachers
- Google Search: Future Business Leaders of America
- MH Observer: Mountain Home High School FBLA Chapter Advances to National Leadership Conference
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business
- Thurston Talk: Olympia High School’s Brooke Parsons and Classmates Excel in Future Business Leaders of America
- Google News: FBLA
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
