News Release

July 12, 2018

NEBRASKA FCCLA MEMBERS RECOGNIZED WITH SUCCESS AT NATIONAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) brought more than 7,500 of its student leaders, members, and advisers to Atlanta, Georgia June 28^th-July 2^nd to participate in the annual National Leadership Conference (NLC). Nebraska was well represented by more than 250 students, advisers, and guests.

The conference provided opportunities for participants to listen to inspiring speakers, expand leadership skills, sharpen talents, and explore career pathways. The theme of the 2018 NLC was, “Inspired by FCCLA,” encouraging attendees to make the right choices and commit themselves to making a positive impact within their families, schools, FCCLA, and communities.

“Our National Leadership Conference was a great success this year, with a record-setting attendance. During the past week, we’ve watched thousands of students come together and realize their full potential through competition, career training, and workshops. The relationships developed and training experienced during this conference have empowered students to go into their schools and communities and make a difference, bringing with them the values and passions FCCLA brings to our members,” said Sandy Spavone, executive director of FCCLA.

During the NLC, Nebraska’s FCCLA State Officer Team participated in the Leadership Academy, developing leadership, employability, and 21^st Century skills. Through the program, members were given the opportunity to explore and practice essentials for the roles of family member, wage earner, and community leader.

Tracy Way, a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Lincoln Southwest High School received the 2018 Spirit of Advising Award. Nicki Pedeliski, a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Platteview High School in Springfield was recognized as a Master Adviser during the conference.

Four FCCLA Chapter Advisers participated in the FCCLA Adviser Academy, a five-track certificate program open to any adviser with fewer than five years of experience. Chapter Advisers participating in Adviser Academy this year include Miranda Bright, High Plains Public Schools; Carmen Hall, Omaha Bryan High School; Lisa Hynes, Elmwood-Murdock Public Schools; and Michelle Irvine, Cozad High School.

In addition to the many learning and networking experiences offered at the conference, more than 30 Family and Consumer Sciences-related competitive events, also known as STAR (Students Taking Action with Recognition) events, were offered with more than 4,500 event participants. These events support foundational, leadership, and workplace skills. Nebraska came home with 80 gold medals and 57 silver medals and had multiple individuals and teams score in the top 10 nationally.

Ashlynn Putnam from Minden High School, received First Place Overall and First Place Senior Category in the Fashion Construction STAR Event. Jenna Abers, Emmalee Harder, and Baylie Shearer from Randolph Junior/Senior High School received Third Place Overall in the Food Innovations Jr. STAR Event.

Nebraska members brought home 47 Top Ten award-winning events. The Top Ten award winners nationally are included in the full News Release.

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