Shelly Bliss ’27, D’29 (Exercise Science/Doctor of Physical Therapy) and Michaela Linsey ’25, M’26 (Accounting/MBA) won top prizes at Future Business Leaders of America Inc.’s (FBLA) National Leadership Conference (NLC). The event, held in Dallas, Texas, from May 31 to June 2, attracted more than 1,000 college students, educators, and volunteers from across the country. The NLC provides education, competition, and networking opportunities centered on business. Dr. Kimberlee Josephson, Associate Professor of Business Administration, is the faculty advisor for LVC’s FBLA club.

Bliss placed first in the nation for Job Interview and fifth for Public Speaking. Linsey placed first in the nation for Project Management and seventh for Foundations of Finance.

“The conference was a fantastic opportunity to represent Lebanon Valley College at a national level,” said Bliss. “This is the second consecutive year with multiple LVC National Champions, which reflects the caliber of students who choose to attend and thrive at LVC and the support provided to help them chase their goals. It was an honor to represent The Valley at such an exhilarating and rewarding event.”

Linsey added, “The conference offered many opportunities for networking, informational workshops, and of course the competitive events, which allowed me to develop both professionally and personally. FBLA provided me with valuable insights into the world of business which expanded on the information learned in the classroom in a very hands-on and practical way.”

“I am extremely proud of these students and so glad they took advantage of such a wonderful opportunity,” Dr. Josephson noted.

More than 890 students from nearly 150 schools in 27 U.S. states and territories competed in 38 business-related events for cash prizes totaling over $45,000. Students also had the opportunity to engage in 60 learning workshops and meet with representatives from more than 25 colleges, universities, and employers, including Alzheimer’s Association, BusinessU, CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP), FICO, Funds2Orgs, Juno, Kendra Scott, Men’s Wearhouse, New Invention Entertainment, PNC Bank, the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and U.S. Coast Guard, and UWorld.

Additionally, student members heard from Astad Dhunjisha, Vice President of Human Resources and Talent Acquisition at AT&T, who shared his insights on change and innovation in the business world and what students can do now to prepare to enter a rapidly shifting job market.

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)—LVC Chapter
The LVC chapter of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)is very successful and is open to all students and majors. FBLA steadily increases membership; develops programs on business etiquette, skills, and interviewing; brings in guest speakers for meetings; engages in tours of local businesses; and develops and promotes business sponsors. FBLA has hosted a regional conference and attended regional, state, and national competitions. The organization is an excellent venue for students to develop leadership and technical skills.

“This year’s National Leadership Conference showcased the incredible talent and dedication of our student members,” said FBLA President & CEO Jennifer Woods. “From analytical thinking to dynamic communication, they demonstrated the skills that will shape tomorrow’s workforce. These college students leave Dallas not only with well-earned recognition, but also with new connections, confidence, and a clearer path toward their future careers.”

Future Business Leaders of America, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) education association with more than 200,000 middle school, high school, and college members worldwide. FBLA inspires and prepares students to become community-minded business leaders in a global society through relevant career preparation and leadership experiences. The association is headquartered in Reston, Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C. For more information, visit fbla.org.