On Feb, 20, members of the local chapter of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) traveled to Richmond, Virginia, for a long day of competition. What appeared to be just a single day of scoring and presentations was, in reality, the result of nearly five months of preparation, practice, and persistence.

Students arrived early, dressed in pressed blazers and dress shoes, balancing laptops, folders, and carefully rehearsed introductions. The energy inside the building was electric—hundreds of competitors reviewing flashcards in hallways, whispering last-minute advice, and pacing outside presentation rooms.

Preparation began in the fall. After-school practices stretched into evenings as members studied objective test material, revised slide shows, timed speeches, and conducted mock judging sessions. FBLA Advisers Christine Kreitzman and Tonya Vowels worked closely with the team, offering feedback and pushing students to refine both content and delivery. Drafts became final copies. Practice rounds became polished performances. By the time February arrived, the chapter was ready.

The FBLA competition consisted of two primary components: objective tests and presentation events. Members sat for rigorous exams covering subjects such as marketing, journalism, finance, cybersecurity, and management. These tests measured not only knowledge but also discipline and preparation. Students who placed on the podium earned medals–recognition for both their mastery of content and their dedication.

Sophomores Sydney Kester, Esli DuarteLopez, and Ziva Lewis worked with each other to present their website design project. After months of building and refining their work, they stood before judges to explain layout decisions, functionality, accessibility features, and overall strategy. Their presentation combined technical detail with professional confidence, earning them a third-place medal.

DuarteLopez also completed an objective test in Project Management, hoping to land on the podium and receive a medal. This test consisted of questions about online security and internet safety.

Nolan McNamara and Landon Warrick showcased a Digital Video Production project that highlighted both editing precision and creative direction. Wanting to recognize someone who plays an important but often overlooked role in FBLA, they created a video featuring Jonnay Grooms and her impact on the organization. Their project earned them a medal for second place among all participating schools in their category, qualifying them for the chance to participate in the state competition during spring break.

Vanessa Vandevander delivered a speech that required not only preparation and composure. Public speaking events test clarity, persuasion, and stage presence—all within strict time limits.

“I decided on this category because I am one of the debate team captains,” Vandevander said, adding that she would gladly participate in a public speaking competition again.

Junior Devon Choi, the club’s treasurer, competed in a live sales scenario. Acting as a salesperson pitching a product to judges, role-playing as clients, Choi had to think quickly, respond to objections, and demonstrate strong communication skills. In addition to his presentation, he also completed an objective test in Data & AI Science.

Sophomore Anthony Baskfield, the secretary of the group, completed two objective tests: Business Law and Customer Service. These tests covered the basic laws of business, customer service, and strategies for handling dissatisfied customers. Although he did not participate in a presentation event, he attended in hopes of earning a medal for the objective tests.

Senior Jadyn Woolstenhulme, the vice president, completed an objective test in Human Resources. Although she did not attend the competition in person, she participated in the objective test competition.

Senior Brandon Rougie, president of the group, competed in an objective test focused on Healthcare Administration, which included topics such as insurance companies and patient interaction. He also participated in a job interview event, role-playing as an applicant for a Human Resources position. While completing his individual events, Rougie continued to lead and encourage the other members of FBLA throughout the day.

Christine Kreitzman and Tonya Vowels, who run the club, dedicated months to preparing students. From reviewing test material and organizing practice presentations to offering constructive critiques, they emphasized growth, professionalism, and resilience. The focus of the club’s sponsors extended beyond medals, encouraging students to treat the competition as a real-world business experience, where preparation, confidence, and adaptability matter just as much as results.

As awards were announced and medals presented to podium finishers, the room filled with applause, relief, and pride. Regardless of placements, every member walked away having gained something valuable: experience under pressure, stronger communication skills, and the confidence that comes from preparation meeting opportunities.

Student medalists at the event:

Nolan McNamara — Second place, Digital Video Production (with Landon Warrick).

Landon Warrick — Second Place, Digital Video Production (with Nolan McNamara).

Esli DuarteLopez — Third Place, Website Design (with Sydney Kester and Ziva Lewis).

Sydney Kester — Third Place, Website Design (with Esli DuarteLopez and Ziva Lewis)

Ziva Lewis — Third Place, Website Design (with Esli DuarteLopez and Sydney Kester)

Devon Choi — Third Place, Sales Presentation