News Summary
Students from Ripon High School showcased their talents at the FBLA National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, California. Representing Wisconsin, four students participated in various competitive events while also enjoying cultural experiences in the city. Despite not qualifying for finals, their journey was marked by personal growth and networking. Wisconsin’s FBLA team achieved notable success, and Ripon High School earned ‘Gold’ status for the fourth consecutive year, showcasing their dedication and hard work.
Ripon High School Students Shine at FBLA National Leadership Conference in Anaheim
In a thrilling showcase of talent and determination, Ripon High School students recently made their mark at the FBLA National Leadership Conference held in beautiful Anaheim, California. The event took place from June 27 to July 2, bringing together bright minds from across the country.
Four enthusiastic students from Ripon joined the ranks of over 15,000 attendees, proudly representing their school and the state of Wisconsin. The team included junior Maggie Wallner and talented sophomores Jocelyn Baker, Clare Walker, and Anastasia Spaulding. Their participation was not just about competition; it was an opportunity to grow, learn, and network with like-minded peers.
Competition Highlights
The group took on two challenging events at the conference. Wallner showcased her skills in the advertising event, vying against some of the best talent in the nation. Meanwhile, Baker, Walker, and Spaulding teamed up to compete in the digital video production category. The preliminary round for the latter took place on June 30, where Ripon’s team went head-to-head with 14 other competing teams.
To move forward to the finals, they needed to secure a place in the top two of their section. While the competition was tough this year, they didn’t qualify for the finals. Wallner also took an objective test on the same day, with results expected in late July or early August. Even though they faced some challenges, the students were mindful of their achievements throughout the journey.
Creating Lasting Memories
The excitement at the conference wasn’t limited to just the competitions. Attendees were treated to a memorable opening session on June 29, which featured a parade of the national officer team and speeches from various candidates vying for national office. The highlight of the event was the keynote speech by Karissa Bodnar, the founder and CEO of Thrive Causemetics. Her inspiring journey and emphasis on employee engagement left a lasting impression on all attendees.
The Ripon students had a jam-packed schedule. They participated in various informative workshops, explored the bustling Exhibit Hall filled with networking opportunities, and enjoyed an exhilarating experience of trading state pins with fellow participants. This immersive experience created bonding moments and strengthened friendships among members from different backgrounds.
Wisconsin’s Success
Notably, Wisconsin’s FBLA team ranked an impressive ninth for “Champion Chapter” points, thanks to an incredible haul of 27 top-10 finishes. Amidst this success, Ripon High School achieved the prestigious “Gold” school status for the fourth consecutive year, showcasing their continuous dedication and hard work.
Exploring Anaheim
The students also took full advantage of their time in Anaheim, engaging in exciting activities that allowed them to explore the city’s rich culture. They toured famous spots like the Griffith Observatory and Hollywood, visited the iconic Original Farmer’s Market, took a trip to the Santa Monica Pier, attended a Los Angeles Angels baseball game, and enjoyed a thrilling Warner Bros Studio tour. An evening at the Medieval Times Dinner Tournament added a splash of fun, while a stroll through Downtown Disney capped off their adventure!
Community Support
The success of Ripon High School’s participation at the FBLA National Leadership Conference wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support from local businesses and organizations. Their contributions significantly helped in offsetting the costs, allowing students to focus on their experience and make lifelong memories.
Overall, Ripon High School students not only represented their school with pride but also created unforgettable experiences that blended learning and fun. As they return home energized and inspired, it’s clear that their journey is just beginning!
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Additional Resources
- Ripon Press
- Wikipedia: Future Business Leaders of America
- Camden Ark News
- Google Search: FBLA National Leadership Conference
- Lowndes Signal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Leadership
- The Bay Net
- Google News: Calvert County students FBLA
Author: STAFF HERE ANAHEIM
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.
