Nebraska FBLA members won top prizes at Future Business Leaders of America, Inc.’s (FBLA) National Leadership Conference (NLC). The FBLA Collegiate NLC was held in Dallas, Texas from May 31 to June 3, attracted more than 2,000 college students, educators, and volunteers from across the country. The Middle School and High School NLC was held in Anaheim, California from June 29 to July 2, attracted more than 15,000 middle school and high school students, educators, and volunteers from across the country. The NLC provides education, competition, and networking opportunities centered on business and technology.
Nearly 11,000 students from more than 2,000 middle schools and high schools in 48 U.S. states and territories competed in 100 business-related events for cash prizes totaling over $120,000. Students also had the opportunity to engage in over 150 learning workshops and meet with representatives from more than 260 colleges, universities, and employers, including Alzheimer’s Association, BusinessU, CLA, Empowerly, FICO, Funds2Orgs, Jostens, Kendra Scott, Men’s Wearhouse, UWorld, MBA Research, National Retail Federation, National Technical Honor Society, PNC Bank Student Lending, TKS Worldwide, the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and U.S. Coast Guard.
Additionally, students heard from keynote speaker and proud FBLA alumna, Karissa Bodnar, Founder and CEO of Thrive Causemetics and Bigger Than Beauty Skincare. In a live onstage conversation with FBLA President & CEO Jennifer Woods, Bodnar shared her journey from high school entrepreneur to leading a globally recognized beauty brand rooted in social impact. Her story inspired students to pursue their passions, embrace innovation, and lead with purpose.
Nebraska FBLA delegation, 455 members, advisers, and guests, traveled to Anaheim on June 27 for an unforgettable experience at the National Leadership Conference. Nebraska FBLA brought home 18 top 10 awards!
In addition to the competitive event winners, Nebraska FBLA has two National Officers for the 2025-2026 membership year. James Fletcher, from Litchfield High School, will serve as the National Mountain Plains Region Vice President, and Annabelle Kumm, from Lincoln East High School, will serve as the National Parliamentarian. Nebraska FBLA had an amazing conference and look forward to seeing how members will Make Their Mark throughout the next year!
Thank you to Nebraska FBLA State Advisers: Jacqui Garrison (MS/HS State Adviser) for serving on this year’s Competitive Events Committee and Jennifer Claus (Collegiate State Adviser) for serving as the National Board of Directors Chair. Their leadership has helped expand opportunities for members across the country in FBLA.
List of Nebraska FBLA MS/HS Award Winners
“This year’s National Leadership Conference showcased the remarkable talent and dedication of our student members,” said FBLA President & CEO Jennifer Woods. “From critical thinking and business management to finance, accounting, and information technology, they demonstrated the essential skills that will shape tomorrow’s workforce. These middle school and high school students leave Anaheim with not only well-earned recognition, but also new connections, greater confidence, and a clearer path toward their future careers.”