Pasco-Hernando State College’s Collegiate Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) received recognitions at the National Leadership Conference in Orlando, Fla., this June. The PHSC state finalists who attended the conference were Caleb Barnhart, Emmalise Feliciano, Holland Haley, Krista Knowles, Gilberto Mattei-Fernandez and Samantha Mutter.
PHSC’s FBLA Collegiate was recognized as an outstanding chapter due to the collective efforts of the group and their detailed work documenting their accomplishments. Emmalise Feliciano was awarded first place in the nation for public speaking out of 50 competitors. Samantha Mutter was awarded first place in the nation for business presentation out of 42 competitor teams. Holland Haley and Krista Knowles were awarded eighth and ninth place, respectively, in the nation for foundations of hospitality management.
“This was a huge field of competitors who were also the best in their states. Emmalise practiced tirelessly for this event with advisors, instructors, PHSC President Pisors, the District Board of Trustees (DBOT), family members, and peers. Practice and dedication paid off,” said Nicole Miller, associate dean of academic affairs. “Samantha refined her presentation every step of the way, worked with accounting experts like Dr. Misty Price, who is an accounting professor, and relentlessly practiced until it was gold.”
“We are beyond PHSC proud of these accomplishments and how the team handled themselves at the conference. They are all future leaders, and their legacy will live on. The accomplishments here also reflect on the programs and the faculty at the college,” stated Miller.
“What a great testament to the excellent learning taking place in the classroom and then the extra hours to refine those skills with dedicated talented advisors. To compete and win on the national stage, including competing against the university level students is so impressive,” said Bob Bade, Ed.D., senior vice president and chief student affairs officer.