FCCLA Chapter Attends State Leadership Conference
by Kendra Schulz
The Pierce FCCLA Chapter had 13 members and their advisor Mrs. Angie Brodersen attend the State Leadership Conference in Lincoln, Nebraska, from Sunday, April 7-Tuesday, April 9.
The members attending the conference were Sydney Erickson, Sydney Slater, Alexis Schnoor, Bridget Raff, Alena Peters, Mackenzie Richmond, Rose Graham, Lucas Gnat, Mason Sindelar, Alexus Sindelar, Katie Christian, Alexandria Vavra, and Jessica Elsberry.
On Sunday was the opening general session in the Pinnacle Bank Arena, which included keynote speaker, Logan Weber.
Monday started with the STAR competition. Sydney Erickson was the state champion medalist in Job Interview, as well as the newly elected Nebraska 2019/2020 State FCCLA President. Alexus Sindelar was state champion in NE Family Challenges and Issues. Alexis Schnoor was a bronze medalist in National Advocacy. Jessica Elsberry was a silver medalist in National Programs in Community Service. The Power of One competitors from Pierce included Rose Graham, Alexandria Vavra, Sydney Erickson, Alexus Sindelar, Mason Sindelar, and Sydney Slater. In addition to the competition, Monday also held an opportunity fair, where the students could explore colleges. Some of the students also volunteered in FCCLA Serves. Senior Alexandria Vavra said, “It was an interesting experience and fun.”
On Monday night was the FCCLA business session, followed by a chapter meal and the dance. Tuesday was the closing session, and all the awards for STAR were presented.
Current President of the Pierce FCCLA Chapter, Sydney Erickson, was named the 2019/2020 FCCLA State President. Erickson spent the past year preparing for her candidacy. She was required to complete an exam, application, and interview; complete a speech in front of voting delegates; and address those in attendance at the conference. Erickson scored the highest out of 14 potential candidates, landing her the president position.
“I am overjoyed to serve as the 2019-2020 Nebraska FCCLA State President!” said Erickson. “I am thankful for the support my parents, Mrs. Brodersen, and the Pierce FCCLA Chapter gave me while I was running for this position. FCCLA is truly an incredible organization that helps young people gain skills that will help them feel more confident and prepared for their future families, careers, and communities, and I feel honored to serve as Nebraska's President!” Erickson will spend the next year representing the state of Nebraska at various conferences, events, and engagements.
