Babson Park, FL. Date (August 2, 2024)- Webber International University once again demonstrated its commitment to excellence as twelve of its students participated in the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Collegiate National Leadership Conference (NLC), held in Orlando from June 27-30, 2024. Competing against students from across the United States and Puerto Rico, Webber’s delegation showcased their skills and knowledge in a variety of categories, achieving impressive results and bringing home accolades that highlight their dedication and hard work.
The conference kicked off with an inspiring opening session featuring Gorick Ng, a renowned author, career advisor at Harvard University, and author of The Unspoken Rules: Secrets to Starting Your Career Off Right. Ng’s insights into navigating the early stages of a career resonated with the students and set a motivating tone for the events that followed.
This year’s NLC featured 35 competitive events, with Webber students competing in 11 of those categories. The students represented a diverse range of majors, including Integrated Marketing Concepts (IMC), Accounting, Finance, Computer Information Systems (CIS), and Criminal Justice Management (CJM), reflecting the broad scope of talent and ambition within the university’s student body.
Among the standout performers were:
- Joshua Carr in Accounting Case Study
- Michelina Arrigo, Alyssia Bouyoucas, and Thea Roque-Krag in Business Ethics, placing 10th place at the national level
- Dianel Diaz in Business Presentation, achieving an impressive 4th place
- Michelina Arrigo & Chase Muniz in Community Service
- Phylicity Knowles in Emerging Business Issues, securing 5th place
- Joshua Carr in Foundations of Accounting
- Daniel Diaz in Foundations of Communication
- Haley Leavines in Foundations of Marketing
- Bryce Gerber & Hailey Leavines in Hospitality Management Case Study
- Katenda Maweja in Impromptu Speaking
- Seth Jones, Jr. in Retail Management
Dr. Joanne Muñiz, Associate Professor & Chair of Accounting, MBA Graduate Program Director, and Honors Program Director, who accompanied the students to the conference, expressed her pride in the students’ achievements: “This year’s group of students exemplifies the diversity and strength of Webber International University. Their success at the NLC is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the exceptional support they receive from the university community.”
In addition to the competitive events, the conference provided students with numerous professional development opportunities through workshops. Some of the notable sessions included: Crafting Your Career Compass, 20 Steps to Start: The Entrepreneur’s Journey, What Do We Use Our Voices For?, and The Hot Seat: It is Your Turn to Lead. These workshops were designed to enhance students’ professional skills, provide valuable insights into career development, and inspire them to take the next steps in their academic and professional journeys.
Webber International University and its FBLA Collegiate chapter are proud of the students’ accomplishments at this year’s NLC. Their participation and success reflect the university’s commitment to fostering leadership, innovation, and excellence in business education.