NEW GLARUS — Alivia Lamb and Kaia Morrison, sophomores at New Glarus High School, attended the 2024 FCCLA National Leadership Conference (NLC) in Seattle, held June 29-July 3. The NLC drew more than 8,000 students, educators, and guests from across the nation and provided a valuable platform for attendees to expand their leadership skills, sharpen their talents, explore career pathways, and listen to inspiring speakers.
The Students Taking Action with Recognition (STAR) Events were at the heart of the conference. Over 4,300 FCCLA Members competed in these events, where they were recognized for their proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills, and career preparation. Students qualify for STAR Events at the NLC based on their regional and state level competitions during the school year.
STAR Events are pivotal in supporting student development by enhancing their classroom experience and guiding them toward successful career pathways. With more than 30 events to choose from, participants had the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities by actively addressing essential issues concerning families, careers, or communities. By researching the topic and implementing projects to advocate for positive change, students acquired valuable skills and industry insights needed to thrive in the 21st century.
Alivia and Kaia competed in the Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation Level 2 STAR Event and achieved a gold medal and placed second in the nation in recognition of their outstanding performance. Alivia and Kaia researched, planned, and designed a unique Door County resort, named The GOAT. Their project exemplifies their dedication, creativity, and commitment to making a positive impact and their accomplishment at the national level is a testament to their hard work and determination.
Traveling to STAR Event competitions provides unique opportunities for students beyond the FCCLA-related events. Alivia and Kaia spent time visiting both iconic locations and less-frequented spots in and around Seattle. This opportunity provided life-long learning experiences that will serve them as students and community members in New Glarus and as adults in future endeavors.
Alivia and Kaia thanked their current advisor Ryan Lehman for his help attending regional and state competitions. Alivia and Kaia also thanked Julie Anderson, their past advisor who is now the FCCLA State Advisor at Wis. Department of Public Instruction. Anderson provided steadfast support and guidance throughout the STAR event process and in person at the NLC. Alivia and Kaia also thanked the New Glarus School District School Board members and Dr. Thayer for their continued support since beginning their FCCLA STAR Event work in 2020 as sixth graders.
