Family, Career and Community Leaders of America
62nd Annual State Leadership Meeting
By Sandy Wilken
April 19, 2007
Eight members and two advisors from the Central high school chapter participated in the FCCLA State Leadership Meeting held April 12-14, 2007 at the Prairie Capital Convention Center, Renaissance and Hilton Hotels in Springfield, Illinois. The Central delegation was part of the more than 1,400 students and advisers that attended the two day conference. Sarah Elliot, a senior at CHS, was one of seven state officers that helped conduct the meeting. Other seniors attending were Kelly Boudreau, Ashley Hoffner, and Sarah Washington. Junior Kristy Morris, sophomore Renee Weisenbeck, and freshmen Darien Abadie and Natasha Weisenbeck also attended, along with Advisors Jackie Fink and Sandy Wilken.
During the recent leadership conference, many of the members participated in STAR (Students Taking Action with Recognition) and State Proficiency Events. These skill and proficiency evens allow students to compete in an area of family and consumer sciences while gaining recognition for their experience. Renee Weisenbeck competed in Career Investigation and received a silver medal. Natasha Weisenbeck competed in Interior Design and received a silver medal. Darien Abadie competed in National Programs and also received a silved medal.
Students were also given the opportunity to participate in workshops and general sessions that addressed many of the key issues that are facing teens today. Mr. Justin Lookadoo was the keynote speaker for the general session. Mr. Lookadoo is a well known author of books such as “Dateable: Are You? Are They?”. He challenged the students with his message of setting high standards and staying true to yourself.
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America is unique among youth organizations because its programs are planned and run by members. It is the only career and technical in-school student organization with the family as its central focus. Participation in state and national programs helps members become strong leaders in their families, careers and communities.
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